PERSONAL NEWS, NOVEMBER 2020
This is the month to be thankful! In the USA, we celebrate a day yearly called Thanksgiving Day where we spend the day to be thankful for what the Lord has done.
This year, we are thankful! Since the onset of COVID-19, the world has been in turmoil! Nothing has remained the same. Travel became restricted, even many countries (including Kenya) closed their borders for some time. As a result, we were unable to return to Kenya as planned in March of this year. Finally, in October, we were able to come back to Kenya.
We are in good health, and good spirits! Unfortunately due to Corona, we were unable to do the fund raising we normally do in the summer months to support us while in Kenya. So while this season has been much more difficult than past trips, we are confident of God's full provision for our mission! God never calls you to fail! But as you listen and follow, you will come into the abundance and provision to complete what He has ordained!
We continue to rejoice in God's great love for us; and thank God for the opportunity we have been given to minister the Word in East Africa!
Thank you for standing with us! Together, we really DO make the difference!!
This is the month to be thankful! In the USA, we celebrate a day yearly called Thanksgiving Day where we spend the day to be thankful for what the Lord has done.
This year, we are thankful! Since the onset of COVID-19, the world has been in turmoil! Nothing has remained the same. Travel became restricted, even many countries (including Kenya) closed their borders for some time. As a result, we were unable to return to Kenya as planned in March of this year. Finally, in October, we were able to come back to Kenya.
We are in good health, and good spirits! Unfortunately due to Corona, we were unable to do the fund raising we normally do in the summer months to support us while in Kenya. So while this season has been much more difficult than past trips, we are confident of God's full provision for our mission! God never calls you to fail! But as you listen and follow, you will come into the abundance and provision to complete what He has ordained!
We continue to rejoice in God's great love for us; and thank God for the opportunity we have been given to minister the Word in East Africa!
Thank you for standing with us! Together, we really DO make the difference!!
PERSONAL NEWS, MAY 2020
It is always difficult for me to write our personal news. We have had our challenges during this season. Thankfully, we are not affected by COVID-19, and for that we are so thankful.
Peter continues to recover well from the surgery in February, although it is much slower in recovery than we had hoped. However, recovery will be the result! The first of May, Donna began to experience a great deal of discomfort and pain. She had a CT Scan; blood tests; and other exams that found nothing we didn’t already know. As we prayed, God revealed that she had quit taking a medication that she had been taking since 2006, and immediately we started that again, and now she is back to normal! Lesson learned! Now we are standing in faith to get the CT Scan paid off before we leave for Kenya!
We continue to stay in Cedar Falls in our little cottage…and enjoy ourselves. Peter is mentoring two young men who are aspiring to enter the mission field in the next few months – one to Zambia, the other to Norway. He also continues to work with various young men in Kenya, sharing the word and encouraging them in their lives and ministry.
Donna encourages the wife of the young man going to Zambia and enjoys the company of their four children whenever they come to visit!
Currently, our plans are to return to California the first of July and on to Kenya mid-July. Pray for our plans – while they are set, they are not set in stone! But we are hopeful to return home and continue our lives in Kenya.
Thank you for praying with us! Together, we really DO make the difference!
It is always difficult for me to write our personal news. We have had our challenges during this season. Thankfully, we are not affected by COVID-19, and for that we are so thankful.
Peter continues to recover well from the surgery in February, although it is much slower in recovery than we had hoped. However, recovery will be the result! The first of May, Donna began to experience a great deal of discomfort and pain. She had a CT Scan; blood tests; and other exams that found nothing we didn’t already know. As we prayed, God revealed that she had quit taking a medication that she had been taking since 2006, and immediately we started that again, and now she is back to normal! Lesson learned! Now we are standing in faith to get the CT Scan paid off before we leave for Kenya!
We continue to stay in Cedar Falls in our little cottage…and enjoy ourselves. Peter is mentoring two young men who are aspiring to enter the mission field in the next few months – one to Zambia, the other to Norway. He also continues to work with various young men in Kenya, sharing the word and encouraging them in their lives and ministry.
Donna encourages the wife of the young man going to Zambia and enjoys the company of their four children whenever they come to visit!
Currently, our plans are to return to California the first of July and on to Kenya mid-July. Pray for our plans – while they are set, they are not set in stone! But we are hopeful to return home and continue our lives in Kenya.
Thank you for praying with us! Together, we really DO make the difference!
PERSONAL NEWS - OCTOBER 2019
As many have figured out, our return to Kenya has been delayed. This year, I became eligible for Medicare. So, I decided to find a primary care physician and be seen. It was God’s leading that I found a great physician in Cedar Falls that has been on mission trips to Kenya, and loves the Lord.
In August, laboratory results indicated two issues that needed to be addressed before returning to Kenya. The one could be stabilized by medication, the other would require being seen by a specialist. After a month on the medications, I was seen again, and the first issue was under control and back to normal. However, the second issue does require further investigation. We are standing in faith for full restoration and healing; but agreed to see the specialist in November. Since we had committed to coming to the US this year for Christmas, and had scheduled meetings in late December and January, we have decided to just wait until February to return to Kenya.
Donna has been doing well. We have enjoyed a quiet summer. We know with confidence that God is working in and through us to accomplish His call on our lives! We are not discourage or dismayed. We are joyful in the knowledge that our future is bright!
Thank you for standing with us as we continue our journey of faith!
As many have figured out, our return to Kenya has been delayed. This year, I became eligible for Medicare. So, I decided to find a primary care physician and be seen. It was God’s leading that I found a great physician in Cedar Falls that has been on mission trips to Kenya, and loves the Lord.
In August, laboratory results indicated two issues that needed to be addressed before returning to Kenya. The one could be stabilized by medication, the other would require being seen by a specialist. After a month on the medications, I was seen again, and the first issue was under control and back to normal. However, the second issue does require further investigation. We are standing in faith for full restoration and healing; but agreed to see the specialist in November. Since we had committed to coming to the US this year for Christmas, and had scheduled meetings in late December and January, we have decided to just wait until February to return to Kenya.
Donna has been doing well. We have enjoyed a quiet summer. We know with confidence that God is working in and through us to accomplish His call on our lives! We are not discourage or dismayed. We are joyful in the knowledge that our future is bright!
Thank you for standing with us as we continue our journey of faith!
PERSONAL NEWS - MAY 2019
As our season in Kakamega comes to an end for a short visit to the USA, we are reflecting on all the goodness of God we have seen! This year so much has been done! And we have built new relationships and friendships!
One connection that we made this year was to Daron & Catherine Kendricks (pictured to the far left in the picture). Daron is from the USA, and Catherine is Kenyan. They have a boarding school for children who are at high risk of not getting a secondary education. Catherine is an advocate for women's rights here and globally - and has spoken on women issues at the United Nations in New York. The connection has been so refreshing! Catherine came to speak on marriage and family at our school this year, and really had a huge impact! In addition one of our student's this spring had not finished secondary school. They were able to help us get him enrolled and he is now finishing his form 1! What a huge blessing!
The other couple in the picture is Gareth and Tracy Jenkins. They are founders of Keystone Ministries, a ministry based in England. Both were born in South Africa, and God called them to Eastern Europe to be missionaries! They were with us for two weeks, speaking into our staff and school as well as other churches in Kenya. God has really connected us together, and I believe we will be working together in training leaders and pastors, not only in Kenya, but in all of Africa and Eastern Europe! God is so good!
We are requesting your prayers as we prepare to travel. Our flights begin on June 1 at 2:00 pm as we fly from Western Kenya to Nairobi. That same day, we will fly from Nairobi to London, arriving in London on Sunday June 2. We then fly direct from London to San Diego that same day, arriving at 6:30 that night! That is a total of 38 hours from leaving Kisumu. When we arrive in San Diego, we will have two days with our daughter before driving to Iowa. So we are requesting your prayers as we journey!
Donna and I remain in good health - although both of us are tired a bit, and looking forward to a few days of rest when we arrive in Iowa. Be sure to check out our summer schedule, and if you want us to come visit, send us your request!
We are thankful to be heading to the USA for a few months, and standing in faith that we can continue to move forward in faith!
Together, we really DO make the difference!!
As our season in Kakamega comes to an end for a short visit to the USA, we are reflecting on all the goodness of God we have seen! This year so much has been done! And we have built new relationships and friendships!
One connection that we made this year was to Daron & Catherine Kendricks (pictured to the far left in the picture). Daron is from the USA, and Catherine is Kenyan. They have a boarding school for children who are at high risk of not getting a secondary education. Catherine is an advocate for women's rights here and globally - and has spoken on women issues at the United Nations in New York. The connection has been so refreshing! Catherine came to speak on marriage and family at our school this year, and really had a huge impact! In addition one of our student's this spring had not finished secondary school. They were able to help us get him enrolled and he is now finishing his form 1! What a huge blessing!
The other couple in the picture is Gareth and Tracy Jenkins. They are founders of Keystone Ministries, a ministry based in England. Both were born in South Africa, and God called them to Eastern Europe to be missionaries! They were with us for two weeks, speaking into our staff and school as well as other churches in Kenya. God has really connected us together, and I believe we will be working together in training leaders and pastors, not only in Kenya, but in all of Africa and Eastern Europe! God is so good!
We are requesting your prayers as we prepare to travel. Our flights begin on June 1 at 2:00 pm as we fly from Western Kenya to Nairobi. That same day, we will fly from Nairobi to London, arriving in London on Sunday June 2. We then fly direct from London to San Diego that same day, arriving at 6:30 that night! That is a total of 38 hours from leaving Kisumu. When we arrive in San Diego, we will have two days with our daughter before driving to Iowa. So we are requesting your prayers as we journey!
Donna and I remain in good health - although both of us are tired a bit, and looking forward to a few days of rest when we arrive in Iowa. Be sure to check out our summer schedule, and if you want us to come visit, send us your request!
We are thankful to be heading to the USA for a few months, and standing in faith that we can continue to move forward in faith!
Together, we really DO make the difference!!
PERSONAL NEWS - FEBURARY 2019
In our End of Year newsletter, we talked a bit about an experience we had over Christmas. We had been so busy when we first arrived in Kenya in November. Almost immediately, we had a team from Ohio come, we had a general conference, and the Bible School session was in full force. By the end of the second week of December, we were exhausted and looking forward to a couple of weeks "alone" before the next team would come in January.
Shortly after the Bible School dismissed, I began to communicate with a young college student in Eldoret, interested in what we were doing in Kenya. Through the course of conversation, I learned that he was an orphan, and was facing challenges. I asked him who he was spending Christmas with - and he told me he would be alone. I told him if he could find his way to Kakamega, we would help him get back to Eldoret after the holidays. And he came on December 23rd. The first night, we prayed together, and I heard him say, "Lord, I'm sorry I didn't think I was worth saving." Later that evening, I asked this young man what he meant. In tears he told me his story. He had lost all funding for his schooling after taking two years at University; the sponsor quit supporting him with no notice, and he found himself homeless. He said, "I had been staying with a friend, but he was leaving on 23rd for Holiday, and I could no longer stay there. So, I decided I must just die myself. (sic) But today, for the first time, I have felt real love, and know God loves me." We spent the next few days talking to him about Jesus, and helping him find himself in Christ.
Edwin came to visit again this past week. In our conversation, I found he was nearly forced to take a course of study for which he did not have passion. But, he had a passion for another area - Fashion and Design. He told us about a University in Eldoret where he could pursue his degree (a Bachelor of Science Degree) in Fashion and Design. We have agreed with him in prayer for every need met to put him through the university program. We have connected him with a group that gives a small scholarship to those in need here in Kakamega - and we have asked some of our Kenya friends to assist with something. But we are far from the amount we need! The cost of a good education in the University arena is about $2,000 per year. This would not include his room and board. Donna and I have personally committed to assist him with his room and board. We have a commitment from a partner in the US to pay a little toward this balance this year by April. We are still in need for about $1,200 USD to cover his fees.
To this end, I had a thought. If you like his design - and if you would like to buy one of his shirts, we can help! We thought if you want a shirt, send us a message! We will send you the measurements we need from you, and send some pictures of possible material - the cost of the shirt is only $30.00 USD, and $20.00 of that will go toward his school fees! He mostly has done men's apparel, but if a lady is interested in an outfit (tunic or dress), we can also accommodate. The cost of those may be somewhat different, depending on the amount of material needed; but we will charge you only the cost of making the garment and the $20.00 that will go toward his education fund. If you get us your order by the first of May, we can bring the finished shirt, dress, or tunic with us to the US in June and get it to you. I have put in the slideshow below the shirts that were made for me - and the tunics that were made for Donna. Message us for more information! We can't support this young man alone - but together, we really can make a difference for his future! Thank you!!
PS - I used the "personal" section for this - but in case you were wondering, WE ARE OKAY!! LOL
In our End of Year newsletter, we talked a bit about an experience we had over Christmas. We had been so busy when we first arrived in Kenya in November. Almost immediately, we had a team from Ohio come, we had a general conference, and the Bible School session was in full force. By the end of the second week of December, we were exhausted and looking forward to a couple of weeks "alone" before the next team would come in January.
Shortly after the Bible School dismissed, I began to communicate with a young college student in Eldoret, interested in what we were doing in Kenya. Through the course of conversation, I learned that he was an orphan, and was facing challenges. I asked him who he was spending Christmas with - and he told me he would be alone. I told him if he could find his way to Kakamega, we would help him get back to Eldoret after the holidays. And he came on December 23rd. The first night, we prayed together, and I heard him say, "Lord, I'm sorry I didn't think I was worth saving." Later that evening, I asked this young man what he meant. In tears he told me his story. He had lost all funding for his schooling after taking two years at University; the sponsor quit supporting him with no notice, and he found himself homeless. He said, "I had been staying with a friend, but he was leaving on 23rd for Holiday, and I could no longer stay there. So, I decided I must just die myself. (sic) But today, for the first time, I have felt real love, and know God loves me." We spent the next few days talking to him about Jesus, and helping him find himself in Christ.
Edwin came to visit again this past week. In our conversation, I found he was nearly forced to take a course of study for which he did not have passion. But, he had a passion for another area - Fashion and Design. He told us about a University in Eldoret where he could pursue his degree (a Bachelor of Science Degree) in Fashion and Design. We have agreed with him in prayer for every need met to put him through the university program. We have connected him with a group that gives a small scholarship to those in need here in Kakamega - and we have asked some of our Kenya friends to assist with something. But we are far from the amount we need! The cost of a good education in the University arena is about $2,000 per year. This would not include his room and board. Donna and I have personally committed to assist him with his room and board. We have a commitment from a partner in the US to pay a little toward this balance this year by April. We are still in need for about $1,200 USD to cover his fees.
To this end, I had a thought. If you like his design - and if you would like to buy one of his shirts, we can help! We thought if you want a shirt, send us a message! We will send you the measurements we need from you, and send some pictures of possible material - the cost of the shirt is only $30.00 USD, and $20.00 of that will go toward his school fees! He mostly has done men's apparel, but if a lady is interested in an outfit (tunic or dress), we can also accommodate. The cost of those may be somewhat different, depending on the amount of material needed; but we will charge you only the cost of making the garment and the $20.00 that will go toward his education fund. If you get us your order by the first of May, we can bring the finished shirt, dress, or tunic with us to the US in June and get it to you. I have put in the slideshow below the shirts that were made for me - and the tunics that were made for Donna. Message us for more information! We can't support this young man alone - but together, we really can make a difference for his future! Thank you!!
PS - I used the "personal" section for this - but in case you were wondering, WE ARE OKAY!! LOL
PERSONAL NEWS/US TRAVEL UPDATE
Today I wanted to share about our upcoming trip to the US. Every year in January, we begin the process of praying over our plans for the summer. This year in our time of prayer, we sensed the Lord saying he was giving us time for rest this summer. Honestly, this is a hard word for us to hear! These months in the US are the only time we are able to raise the funds needed to do the work we do in Kenya! But, we have also learned to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit – this is His vision – this will be His provision!
Although we will be resting, we will also be doing some travel. From California, we plan to drive to Iowa to arrange and set up our Midwest base in Cedar Falls, IA. We should have about 10 days in Iowa cleaning and setting up our place before leaving for the East Coast. From June 10 through 12, we will be at the Faith Christian Fellowship East Coast Leadership Conference in Boston, MA. From there we plan to spend a week with family in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Deleware.
We will have a meeting in Dayton, Ohio with a team that is coming in December, then back to Cedar Falls. We are scheduled in the area June 3, July 15 and August 5. Other Sundays are still open…and we would love to come to your church or ministry to share what God is doing in Kenya! To schedule a time with us, please send me an email to Revpeterp@gffmi.org.
We look forward to a time of rest, and a time of seeing many of you, our family, friends and partners!
Together, we really DO make the difference!!
Today I wanted to share about our upcoming trip to the US. Every year in January, we begin the process of praying over our plans for the summer. This year in our time of prayer, we sensed the Lord saying he was giving us time for rest this summer. Honestly, this is a hard word for us to hear! These months in the US are the only time we are able to raise the funds needed to do the work we do in Kenya! But, we have also learned to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit – this is His vision – this will be His provision!
Although we will be resting, we will also be doing some travel. From California, we plan to drive to Iowa to arrange and set up our Midwest base in Cedar Falls, IA. We should have about 10 days in Iowa cleaning and setting up our place before leaving for the East Coast. From June 10 through 12, we will be at the Faith Christian Fellowship East Coast Leadership Conference in Boston, MA. From there we plan to spend a week with family in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Deleware.
We will have a meeting in Dayton, Ohio with a team that is coming in December, then back to Cedar Falls. We are scheduled in the area June 3, July 15 and August 5. Other Sundays are still open…and we would love to come to your church or ministry to share what God is doing in Kenya! To schedule a time with us, please send me an email to Revpeterp@gffmi.org.
We look forward to a time of rest, and a time of seeing many of you, our family, friends and partners!
Together, we really DO make the difference!!
PERSONAL NEWS APRIL 2018
We are excited to welcome two visitors to our home in Kakamega this coming week. We have been asked to host two students of Charis Bible College in Woodland Park, Colorado as a part of their missions training. They will arrive on the 18 April, and stay with us until the end of the month. They are coming to see what it is like to be on the ground, and in the field.
One of the objectives of this program is to give practical experience to students who are desiring to enter missions. The representative of Andrew Wommack Ministries here in Kenya was asked to host these students for six weeks. He suggested that while they were here, they experience time with actual missionaries in the field. We were asked to participate in this experiment. Pray for us as we host these students that they may experience the joys of missions!
Donna and I are doing well…and preparing mentally to return to the United States in May. We are often asked what it is like to live in Kenya. While we love where we live, and love the work we do, there are frustrations and things that we experience that make us long for the United States. There are always shortages in the markets. For instance, since coming to Kenya in January this year, we have been unable to find canned tomatoes in the market. There are times that we will go two or three weeks before finding ground beef or certain cheese. At times you cannot find butter or luncheon meats. From grocery supplies to construction supplies, shortages seem to rule! Fresh greens are usually available, but sometimes you cannot find lettuce, and other fresh vegetables and fruit to which we are accustomed. When we return to the States, our first trip to Walmart is a culture shock in itself! Not only can you find canned tomatoes, you find 7 varieties (from whole to Italian style) and at least 5 different brands! It can be overwhelming! So we begin to mentally prepare a month before traveling!
Thank you for praying for us as we prepare to close our time in Kenya, and return to the US for the summer. Together we really DO make the difference!
We are excited to welcome two visitors to our home in Kakamega this coming week. We have been asked to host two students of Charis Bible College in Woodland Park, Colorado as a part of their missions training. They will arrive on the 18 April, and stay with us until the end of the month. They are coming to see what it is like to be on the ground, and in the field.
One of the objectives of this program is to give practical experience to students who are desiring to enter missions. The representative of Andrew Wommack Ministries here in Kenya was asked to host these students for six weeks. He suggested that while they were here, they experience time with actual missionaries in the field. We were asked to participate in this experiment. Pray for us as we host these students that they may experience the joys of missions!
Donna and I are doing well…and preparing mentally to return to the United States in May. We are often asked what it is like to live in Kenya. While we love where we live, and love the work we do, there are frustrations and things that we experience that make us long for the United States. There are always shortages in the markets. For instance, since coming to Kenya in January this year, we have been unable to find canned tomatoes in the market. There are times that we will go two or three weeks before finding ground beef or certain cheese. At times you cannot find butter or luncheon meats. From grocery supplies to construction supplies, shortages seem to rule! Fresh greens are usually available, but sometimes you cannot find lettuce, and other fresh vegetables and fruit to which we are accustomed. When we return to the States, our first trip to Walmart is a culture shock in itself! Not only can you find canned tomatoes, you find 7 varieties (from whole to Italian style) and at least 5 different brands! It can be overwhelming! So we begin to mentally prepare a month before traveling!
Thank you for praying for us as we prepare to close our time in Kenya, and return to the US for the summer. Together we really DO make the difference!
PERSONAL NEWS MARCH 2018
The past few weeks have been a challenge for us. We remain steadfast in our faith that God is working and that we have received all we need to accomplish what God has called us to do. We remain steadfast on Philippians 1:6, “I possess an inward certainty about you, confident that he who is the initiator of the good work within you is also the one who executes its completeness as mirrored in Jesus Christ, who is the light of day. He is the fullness of time.” (Mirror Bible)
February and March are months of projects and preparation for us in Kenya. So we keep very busy with workers in abundance doing upgrades and improvements as funds are available. In addition, we use these months to prepare for the Bible School in April, working on manuals, teaching material and getting supplies in order.
The last weekend of February, we traveled to Narok, Kenya to speak to a church near the Maasai Mara. It was a joy to be with them! We ministered at a church two times on Sunday, and then did a “Discover Your Identity” workshop on Monday. We had around twenty persons attend the workshop, and were set free from old religious beliefs! God is so good!
As we enter into March, we are also working on our summer schedule! If you are interested in having us come to your church, small group, a coffee time, or private event, please let us know. We would love to book a couple of “Discover Your Identity” worships in the US this year. Drop us a line if you are interested.
Thank you for praying for us and standing in agreement that He who began the work will complete it in us! We appreciate you! Together, we really DO make the difference!
The past few weeks have been a challenge for us. We remain steadfast in our faith that God is working and that we have received all we need to accomplish what God has called us to do. We remain steadfast on Philippians 1:6, “I possess an inward certainty about you, confident that he who is the initiator of the good work within you is also the one who executes its completeness as mirrored in Jesus Christ, who is the light of day. He is the fullness of time.” (Mirror Bible)
February and March are months of projects and preparation for us in Kenya. So we keep very busy with workers in abundance doing upgrades and improvements as funds are available. In addition, we use these months to prepare for the Bible School in April, working on manuals, teaching material and getting supplies in order.
The last weekend of February, we traveled to Narok, Kenya to speak to a church near the Maasai Mara. It was a joy to be with them! We ministered at a church two times on Sunday, and then did a “Discover Your Identity” workshop on Monday. We had around twenty persons attend the workshop, and were set free from old religious beliefs! God is so good!
As we enter into March, we are also working on our summer schedule! If you are interested in having us come to your church, small group, a coffee time, or private event, please let us know. We would love to book a couple of “Discover Your Identity” worships in the US this year. Drop us a line if you are interested.
Thank you for praying for us and standing in agreement that He who began the work will complete it in us! We appreciate you! Together, we really DO make the difference!
Personal News January 2018
Donna and I wanted to thank all of those who sent messages of encouragement and sympathy in the death of my dad. We made our quick trip to the US for the burial, and to settle his estate, vacate his apartment, and spend a little time with family.
The memorial service was glorious! The pastor who officiated at the service told me that it was the “most fun funeral” he had ever participated in or even attended! Many people have shared the same thought with us. Of course we had lots of singing and sharing! At the luncheon following, the wife of one of dad’s co-pastors of an inner city church in Iowa back in the 70’s shared her testimony and memories of our families together. When they first moved to Iowa from Kentucky, I played for her when she would sing solos in our churches. We convinced her to sing “Precious Lord”, and I played for her! Wow…it was SO powerful! Many others shared the positive impact that my dad had on their lives…and it left me hoping in some way, this will be my legacy as well.
We were scheduled to return to Kenya December 29. Well, it started to snow early on the 29th, and by 11AM, I got a text message from our airline that our 5:15 flight had been delayed. I tried to call the airline, but the wait was over 2 hours to get assistance. I saw online another flight to Minneapolis at 2:30 pm…and at 1, Donna and took off for the airport in hopes they could get us on that flight so we wouldn’t miss any other flights to Kenya! We were to have an hour layover in Minneapolis…and a three hour layover in Amsterdam. The agents were able to get us on the earlier flight, but it too was delayed – and we ended up with only an hour wait in Minneapolis. Somehow (we were never told why), our flight was seriously delayed getting into Amsterdam, although we left Minneapolis on time. We were told that we would not make it to our next flight, but Donna and I stood in agreement, and thank God, we were the last to load! Thankfully we didn’t miss any flights to Kenya, and all went well.
Since getting home, both Donna and I have suffered from sinus infections. We thank God for His healing that belongs to us. God is faithful – we do not deny sickness, we just deny it’s right to be in our bodies! I am doing well now, and we continue to stand on the Word for Donna’s complete deliverance.
We are happy to be back in Kenya doing what we believe God has called us to do, and loving every moment!! Thank you for your prayers for us, and for your support!
Together, we really DO make the difference!!
Donna and I wanted to thank all of those who sent messages of encouragement and sympathy in the death of my dad. We made our quick trip to the US for the burial, and to settle his estate, vacate his apartment, and spend a little time with family.
The memorial service was glorious! The pastor who officiated at the service told me that it was the “most fun funeral” he had ever participated in or even attended! Many people have shared the same thought with us. Of course we had lots of singing and sharing! At the luncheon following, the wife of one of dad’s co-pastors of an inner city church in Iowa back in the 70’s shared her testimony and memories of our families together. When they first moved to Iowa from Kentucky, I played for her when she would sing solos in our churches. We convinced her to sing “Precious Lord”, and I played for her! Wow…it was SO powerful! Many others shared the positive impact that my dad had on their lives…and it left me hoping in some way, this will be my legacy as well.
We were scheduled to return to Kenya December 29. Well, it started to snow early on the 29th, and by 11AM, I got a text message from our airline that our 5:15 flight had been delayed. I tried to call the airline, but the wait was over 2 hours to get assistance. I saw online another flight to Minneapolis at 2:30 pm…and at 1, Donna and took off for the airport in hopes they could get us on that flight so we wouldn’t miss any other flights to Kenya! We were to have an hour layover in Minneapolis…and a three hour layover in Amsterdam. The agents were able to get us on the earlier flight, but it too was delayed – and we ended up with only an hour wait in Minneapolis. Somehow (we were never told why), our flight was seriously delayed getting into Amsterdam, although we left Minneapolis on time. We were told that we would not make it to our next flight, but Donna and I stood in agreement, and thank God, we were the last to load! Thankfully we didn’t miss any flights to Kenya, and all went well.
Since getting home, both Donna and I have suffered from sinus infections. We thank God for His healing that belongs to us. God is faithful – we do not deny sickness, we just deny it’s right to be in our bodies! I am doing well now, and we continue to stand on the Word for Donna’s complete deliverance.
We are happy to be back in Kenya doing what we believe God has called us to do, and loving every moment!! Thank you for your prayers for us, and for your support!
Together, we really DO make the difference!!
PERSONAL NEWS APRIL 2017
It seems this is an area people love to read! Our personal news! I wish we had a lot- but honestly this is the most difficult posting to write! I will do my best, and hope you get something! :)
It might be good for you to know what a "typical" day is for us in Kenya. Days are not always the same - depending on what type of help we may have for the day. But, I will share with you the basics.
Our mornings start at 6AM. Donna and I get up, shower, dress and spend about an hour with God together before we start much of anything else. After our personal time with God, Donna fixes breakfast for us. Honestly, our breakfast is the same almost every day! I have an egg with refried beans, a cheese stuffed chili and quesadilla. Donna has toast and two eggs. After breakfast, we clean up and get ready for our day.
After our morning routine, things vary. Often, we have projects going on that will need our attention, or we will work on material for the clinic or Bible School. The past two weeks have been very busy with this type of preparation. I have put together the manuals for five terms that will begin April 10th. To do a manual, I copy and paste, and format into a new manual with fresh introductions for the term, and a daily schedule. It takes between two to three weeks to fully develop the manuals and get them ready for the printer. (Beginning in December, we are changing the way we do these manuals that will take away from the preparation time greatly! While it will ultimately cost us a little more money, we believe the savings in time will be worth it!)
Donna will often work with clinic staff on various issues - but it is truthful to say that we are often so busy we forget we should have lunch! When that realization finally comes, we fix ourselves something small - usually a sandwich, or in my case, I love salad! After lunch, we finish up whatever we had started in the mornings, and then take time to interact with our staff, and people of the community in the late afternoon. Many people complain that we "Americans" eat way too early in the evening - Donna and I like to eat between 5:30 and 6PM...so we are finished with dinner and clean up before 7. In the evening, we often talk, read, or watch a video.
At least once a week, we go into town for supplies. Neither of us like to go to town - it usually takes much longer than we want, and always costs us more than we have! LOL But we thank God that we have our Bishop here with a nice pickup that allows us to use it weekly for these runs!
Every Monday, we have our staff luncheon. The staff from our house and the clinic come together at 1 on Mondays for lunch, and then we often have discussion, Bible Study and prayer. It has developed a real connection between us and our staff; and takes away much of the "mystic" of associating with "a foreigner." We have really found these times of connection vital to keep loyalty and commitment to the work. We stress the need for communication between all the staff, and stress that these times are "safe" times, when you can freely express your concerns and joys. And it has done well!
Every week, Donna and I usually go out on Sunday's to minister in churches in the community, or beyond. We often go to Bible and Literacy League Churches, but also visit other churches as we have time. This year, we have had a few Sunday's with no commitment, which has been nice to take a day of actual rest - which we are thankful we can do.
Donna and I are both physically well. We enjoy life in the bush of Western Kenya, and although we have challenges, never have seen this as a big sacrifice! Of course, we DO find it a great joy! Thank you for praying for us - and believing God with us! Because of you, we are able to move forward and do what God has called us to do!
It seems this is an area people love to read! Our personal news! I wish we had a lot- but honestly this is the most difficult posting to write! I will do my best, and hope you get something! :)
It might be good for you to know what a "typical" day is for us in Kenya. Days are not always the same - depending on what type of help we may have for the day. But, I will share with you the basics.
Our mornings start at 6AM. Donna and I get up, shower, dress and spend about an hour with God together before we start much of anything else. After our personal time with God, Donna fixes breakfast for us. Honestly, our breakfast is the same almost every day! I have an egg with refried beans, a cheese stuffed chili and quesadilla. Donna has toast and two eggs. After breakfast, we clean up and get ready for our day.
After our morning routine, things vary. Often, we have projects going on that will need our attention, or we will work on material for the clinic or Bible School. The past two weeks have been very busy with this type of preparation. I have put together the manuals for five terms that will begin April 10th. To do a manual, I copy and paste, and format into a new manual with fresh introductions for the term, and a daily schedule. It takes between two to three weeks to fully develop the manuals and get them ready for the printer. (Beginning in December, we are changing the way we do these manuals that will take away from the preparation time greatly! While it will ultimately cost us a little more money, we believe the savings in time will be worth it!)
Donna will often work with clinic staff on various issues - but it is truthful to say that we are often so busy we forget we should have lunch! When that realization finally comes, we fix ourselves something small - usually a sandwich, or in my case, I love salad! After lunch, we finish up whatever we had started in the mornings, and then take time to interact with our staff, and people of the community in the late afternoon. Many people complain that we "Americans" eat way too early in the evening - Donna and I like to eat between 5:30 and 6PM...so we are finished with dinner and clean up before 7. In the evening, we often talk, read, or watch a video.
At least once a week, we go into town for supplies. Neither of us like to go to town - it usually takes much longer than we want, and always costs us more than we have! LOL But we thank God that we have our Bishop here with a nice pickup that allows us to use it weekly for these runs!
Every Monday, we have our staff luncheon. The staff from our house and the clinic come together at 1 on Mondays for lunch, and then we often have discussion, Bible Study and prayer. It has developed a real connection between us and our staff; and takes away much of the "mystic" of associating with "a foreigner." We have really found these times of connection vital to keep loyalty and commitment to the work. We stress the need for communication between all the staff, and stress that these times are "safe" times, when you can freely express your concerns and joys. And it has done well!
Every week, Donna and I usually go out on Sunday's to minister in churches in the community, or beyond. We often go to Bible and Literacy League Churches, but also visit other churches as we have time. This year, we have had a few Sunday's with no commitment, which has been nice to take a day of actual rest - which we are thankful we can do.
Donna and I are both physically well. We enjoy life in the bush of Western Kenya, and although we have challenges, never have seen this as a big sacrifice! Of course, we DO find it a great joy! Thank you for praying for us - and believing God with us! Because of you, we are able to move forward and do what God has called us to do!
PERSONAL NEWS JANUARY 2017
January is the month where Donna and I begin seeking God regarding our time in the US. May comes very quickly! Right now, we have only two scheduled meeting, the first Sunday of June; and the third Sunday of June. As we have sought the Lord, we felt the Lord saying to take some time for rest in June, which we will do. We would like to schedule for July through October as soon as we can. We are offering three types of visits that we can do – if one of them fits you, please drop us an email so we can schedule you! To read our summer options, please click here! Together, we really DO make the difference.
OPTION ONE: The first option we have is our “Identity Weekend.” We found last year that we would come to churches often on Saturday, minister Sunday morning, and leave Monday. We thought it might be a benefit to some churches to have an “Identity Weekend”, where we would come in and do a Friday evening,
Saturday morning, Saturday afternoon, and Sunday morning time. The schedule we thought would be as follows:
Friday Evening “Learning your Identity”
Saturday 9 AM Start with Coffee & Tea – theme of morning “Identity Challenged”
Saturday Noon Lunch options – the participants contribute something for lunch to be brought to church, or everyone on their own for lunch. (2 Hour Lunch Hour if all are on their own)
Saturday 2 PM Theme – “Identity Established.”
Sunday Morning: Theme – “Why we Go – adventures in obedience.”
The configuration of these seminars are flexible – so can adjust to meet any church schedule. This is only an example.
OPTION TWO: The second option is just as we did last year, arriving on Saturday, and having services as usual with the host church.
OPTION THREE: Option 3 is mostly for individuals who would like to help us. We all this a Kenya Coffee and Tea with the Pfaltzgraff’s. These coffee’s are set up to be in the evenings, or Saturday or Sunday afternoons. The host would invite his/her friends, family and colleagues to come together for a time of fellowship. Donna and I would provide the coffee and tea for the time, and serve Kenya style. We would then share a couple of videos about our ministry in Kenya, do some personal sharing of stories and adventures, and close with questions. When we have done these in the past, we end with ways the people present can connect with us – but we do not put any pressure, or even take up an offering. It is a time where we can share our vision, and the work we are currently doing. Historically, these have been a great time of connection! Generally, we try to limit the time to 2 hours.
If any of these options appeal to you, or if you sense the Holy Spirit in any of these areas, please contact us! We will let you know when we are coming through your area and can be available.
IN OTHER PERSONAL NEWS
Keep us in your prayers as we continue to believe God for complete restoration to our bodies. This past month, while getting our netting ready over the bed, my (Peter) glasses broke! They are not repairable - and I don't think a new eye exam would do much good without having some other issues looked at first. When we were in Kisumu earlier this week, I did have an eye exam, and ordered new glasses. We did find them at a fair rate, but had to take a step of faith to purchase them. They are due to arrive in Kakamega by 20th of January. Agree with us that this new prescription will do well for me!
Usually while in Kenya, Donna and I both lose weight. Well, this year Donna has lost, but I have not! One thing we decided at the first of the year is to walk every day. So, the past week we have been walking early morning, before the heat comes.and it has been so nice. We continue to thank God or good overall health!
January is the month where Donna and I begin seeking God regarding our time in the US. May comes very quickly! Right now, we have only two scheduled meeting, the first Sunday of June; and the third Sunday of June. As we have sought the Lord, we felt the Lord saying to take some time for rest in June, which we will do. We would like to schedule for July through October as soon as we can. We are offering three types of visits that we can do – if one of them fits you, please drop us an email so we can schedule you! To read our summer options, please click here! Together, we really DO make the difference.
OPTION ONE: The first option we have is our “Identity Weekend.” We found last year that we would come to churches often on Saturday, minister Sunday morning, and leave Monday. We thought it might be a benefit to some churches to have an “Identity Weekend”, where we would come in and do a Friday evening,
Saturday morning, Saturday afternoon, and Sunday morning time. The schedule we thought would be as follows:
Friday Evening “Learning your Identity”
Saturday 9 AM Start with Coffee & Tea – theme of morning “Identity Challenged”
Saturday Noon Lunch options – the participants contribute something for lunch to be brought to church, or everyone on their own for lunch. (2 Hour Lunch Hour if all are on their own)
Saturday 2 PM Theme – “Identity Established.”
Sunday Morning: Theme – “Why we Go – adventures in obedience.”
The configuration of these seminars are flexible – so can adjust to meet any church schedule. This is only an example.
OPTION TWO: The second option is just as we did last year, arriving on Saturday, and having services as usual with the host church.
OPTION THREE: Option 3 is mostly for individuals who would like to help us. We all this a Kenya Coffee and Tea with the Pfaltzgraff’s. These coffee’s are set up to be in the evenings, or Saturday or Sunday afternoons. The host would invite his/her friends, family and colleagues to come together for a time of fellowship. Donna and I would provide the coffee and tea for the time, and serve Kenya style. We would then share a couple of videos about our ministry in Kenya, do some personal sharing of stories and adventures, and close with questions. When we have done these in the past, we end with ways the people present can connect with us – but we do not put any pressure, or even take up an offering. It is a time where we can share our vision, and the work we are currently doing. Historically, these have been a great time of connection! Generally, we try to limit the time to 2 hours.
If any of these options appeal to you, or if you sense the Holy Spirit in any of these areas, please contact us! We will let you know when we are coming through your area and can be available.
IN OTHER PERSONAL NEWS
Keep us in your prayers as we continue to believe God for complete restoration to our bodies. This past month, while getting our netting ready over the bed, my (Peter) glasses broke! They are not repairable - and I don't think a new eye exam would do much good without having some other issues looked at first. When we were in Kisumu earlier this week, I did have an eye exam, and ordered new glasses. We did find them at a fair rate, but had to take a step of faith to purchase them. They are due to arrive in Kakamega by 20th of January. Agree with us that this new prescription will do well for me!
Usually while in Kenya, Donna and I both lose weight. Well, this year Donna has lost, but I have not! One thing we decided at the first of the year is to walk every day. So, the past week we have been walking early morning, before the heat comes.and it has been so nice. We continue to thank God or good overall health!
PERSONAL NEWS OCTOBER 2016
Last week, Dr. Pat Hagin Harrison had a word over Donna and I. It was such a great blessing, confirming God's call and direction in the near future. We are now ready to leave the US! And, we are excited! It has been many months since we have been in "our own bed", and we are ready to do so again!
Donna and I are both doing quite well. In June, Peter had an episode which impaired the sight in his right eye. In September, he was seen by an urgent care physician, and was referred to the Emergency Room to rule out any neurological disorders. Those were ruled out, for which we thank God. We have been working to get that looked at for two months - but health insurance as it is moves as slowly as a turtle! So, we prayed until we knew in our hearts the right date to return to Kenya before purchasing our tickets. We are standing in faith for a complete healing (and request you do the same, including speaking the Word of healing over the situation when you think about it!). I will see an eye specialist upon return to the United States in May.
Other than that, we are in good health. Donna saw her primary care physician, who only wanted to know when we were going to "slow down." We told her around 110, to 120! LOL
All that being said, we are ready to go back to Kenya. We have felt so grateful to family, friends, partners and many relational churches for allowing us to share what God is doing in Kenya. Our prayer is that next year, we can be as fruitful!
Thank you for your prayers and love for us personally. We value your friendship - and your partnership!
Together we really DO make the difference!
Last week, Dr. Pat Hagin Harrison had a word over Donna and I. It was such a great blessing, confirming God's call and direction in the near future. We are now ready to leave the US! And, we are excited! It has been many months since we have been in "our own bed", and we are ready to do so again!
Donna and I are both doing quite well. In June, Peter had an episode which impaired the sight in his right eye. In September, he was seen by an urgent care physician, and was referred to the Emergency Room to rule out any neurological disorders. Those were ruled out, for which we thank God. We have been working to get that looked at for two months - but health insurance as it is moves as slowly as a turtle! So, we prayed until we knew in our hearts the right date to return to Kenya before purchasing our tickets. We are standing in faith for a complete healing (and request you do the same, including speaking the Word of healing over the situation when you think about it!). I will see an eye specialist upon return to the United States in May.
Other than that, we are in good health. Donna saw her primary care physician, who only wanted to know when we were going to "slow down." We told her around 110, to 120! LOL
All that being said, we are ready to go back to Kenya. We have felt so grateful to family, friends, partners and many relational churches for allowing us to share what God is doing in Kenya. Our prayer is that next year, we can be as fruitful!
Thank you for your prayers and love for us personally. We value your friendship - and your partnership!
Together we really DO make the difference!
PERSONAL NEWS JUNE 2016
This has been a most adventurous two months! After the closing of our Bible School, we spent a week preparing to return to the US. We are so privileged to have such an amazing staff in Kenya that allows us freedom to do the work God has called us to do! We had a final luncheon with them on Monday, May 9th, and said our "formal" goodbyes and final instructions!
On May 12, we boarded a bus to Nairobi - as we were preparing to board, Donna realized she had left her cane at our home at Ematsayi. Fortunately, we were able to contact one of our staff members to have it sent to us in Nairobi before we flew out on Sunday evening!
When we arrived in Nairobi, we discovered that my laptop had quit working all together. Honestly, I really panicked! My whole life and ministry was on that hard-drive, and I had not made a back up since December! One of our intercessors sent me a message on Facebook, and said, “do not panic or ay anything negative about your computer. Rest, and recharge.” It appeared to me that the power supply was working well, and the computer was reading full charge – but I have learned over the years to follow after the Holy Spirit. So I wrapped the laptop in bubble wrap and put it in our checked luggage, and left it alone. When we got to the US, I plugged it in, but it would not turn on. I contacted a technician who agreed to at least get the information off the hard-drive for me at a very reasonable cost, so took it to him right away. This would have been on a Friday, and we were leaving on Tuesday morning very early. When I called him on Saturday, he had not looked at it yet – but was going to Monday morning first thing. Monday afternoon, he told me he found NOTHING WRONG with the laptop, other than the keyboard doesn’t work at all (which I had known already). He told me to come pick it up, which I did…and he didn’t charge me anything! When I got it home, it started up right away, but the battery was dead. So I plugged in the power supply, which worked fine, and charged the battery. In the mean time, I did back everything up at that point onto an external drive! God is faithful!
On Tuesday, May 24, we began our journey to the Midwest. A year ago, our beloved Buick LeSabre bit the dust – and we felt lead of the Spirit to sell it, which we did. Many of you remember last summer when ever we went somewhere we rented a vehicle. This year, we knew we didn’t want to travel back and forth to California every month to change out cars…so tried to rent a car from the 19th of May through the middle of October. Most rental agencies won’t even consider such a long rental. However, through Costco, we were able to secure a rental with Avis for the entire time at a reasonable rate.
I felt impressed by the Holy Spirit to stop in at the rental agency the day before to see what they might have for us. We had reserved a car like a Ford Fusion – but really wanted something bigger. When I entered the agency, the agent remembered me from the previous years, and told me, “Brother, I don’t have anything today, but I have two SUV’s coming in tonight. I will save the best one for you!” The next day, he had a Nissan Murano cleaned and ready for us! It fully met the need we had to move things from California to Iowa, and comfortable to drive and ride in as well! We will not keep this car for the entire time – each month they will call us to “renew” the lease, and take the miles we have driven. If the car is in need of service, we will either take it in for service and wait for it, or they will replace it. Already, we have put nearly 4,000 miles on the vehicle. We are trusting God for continued favor for a vehicle of equivalent size and gas mileage as we move from month to month!
Our trip to Iowa was very nice. We stopped in Utah to have dinner with our good friends, Pastor Kathy and Norm Mincer. From there we went to Nebraska, where we just slept the night! We arrived in Iowa on the third day, visiting my aunt and Dad before coming to our home here in Cedar Falls in the evening!
Donna and I are doing well. I have been experiencing a great deal of back pain since the first part of April – but sense the Holy Spirit is telling us that we need to relax and rest for a few weeks before really hitting the road again. My schedule really didn’t allow for that – we had our first service in the US the first Friday after arriving in California, sharing at a small Bible Study that day, and then sharing with our home church on that Sunday. We had nothing scheduled for the following Sunday, and a family gathering and service this past Sunday. We were scheduled for nearly every week after this week until mid-October.
About three days ago, the pastor of the church in Kansas City where we were to be this coming Sunday called to say that if he was Kenyan, he would postpone our meeting – but since he knew that we were American, and he was trying to be one as well, he would honor his commitment. After we talked a bit, the Holy Spirit spoke to me, and said, “This is Holy Spirit! I want you to stay in Cedar Falls and rest for another week.” So, we are staying in a modified rest mode for the next week or so, trusting God for complete healing in every way. He is our healer – we have been healed because of the work of Christ Jesus!
Above I mentioned “Modified rest mode” for a reason – while we are “resting”, we are not idle! Donna and I are working hard to get unpacked and settled into our cabin. We planted flowers in front of our cottage last week, and some in front of my dad’s cabin next door. Our cottage had sat unoccupied since last September, so we needed to really give it a cleaning – which we have also now completed. Both of us have set up our offices in our place now, so we can continue paperwork and emails and correspondence both to many of our partners as well as our staff and friends in Kenya. But for the most part, we plan to rest and recharge! We are catching up on some of the podcasts we miss over the past 6 months, and absorbing the great teachings we are hearing! God is faithful! Rested and recharged, we will be ready (and physically able) to do what the Lord has for us this summer!
We look forward to connecting and reconnecting with people in the US this year. God is faithful – and together, we really DO make the difference!
PS – the photo gallery below is of our activities since coming to the US
This has been a most adventurous two months! After the closing of our Bible School, we spent a week preparing to return to the US. We are so privileged to have such an amazing staff in Kenya that allows us freedom to do the work God has called us to do! We had a final luncheon with them on Monday, May 9th, and said our "formal" goodbyes and final instructions!
On May 12, we boarded a bus to Nairobi - as we were preparing to board, Donna realized she had left her cane at our home at Ematsayi. Fortunately, we were able to contact one of our staff members to have it sent to us in Nairobi before we flew out on Sunday evening!
When we arrived in Nairobi, we discovered that my laptop had quit working all together. Honestly, I really panicked! My whole life and ministry was on that hard-drive, and I had not made a back up since December! One of our intercessors sent me a message on Facebook, and said, “do not panic or ay anything negative about your computer. Rest, and recharge.” It appeared to me that the power supply was working well, and the computer was reading full charge – but I have learned over the years to follow after the Holy Spirit. So I wrapped the laptop in bubble wrap and put it in our checked luggage, and left it alone. When we got to the US, I plugged it in, but it would not turn on. I contacted a technician who agreed to at least get the information off the hard-drive for me at a very reasonable cost, so took it to him right away. This would have been on a Friday, and we were leaving on Tuesday morning very early. When I called him on Saturday, he had not looked at it yet – but was going to Monday morning first thing. Monday afternoon, he told me he found NOTHING WRONG with the laptop, other than the keyboard doesn’t work at all (which I had known already). He told me to come pick it up, which I did…and he didn’t charge me anything! When I got it home, it started up right away, but the battery was dead. So I plugged in the power supply, which worked fine, and charged the battery. In the mean time, I did back everything up at that point onto an external drive! God is faithful!
On Tuesday, May 24, we began our journey to the Midwest. A year ago, our beloved Buick LeSabre bit the dust – and we felt lead of the Spirit to sell it, which we did. Many of you remember last summer when ever we went somewhere we rented a vehicle. This year, we knew we didn’t want to travel back and forth to California every month to change out cars…so tried to rent a car from the 19th of May through the middle of October. Most rental agencies won’t even consider such a long rental. However, through Costco, we were able to secure a rental with Avis for the entire time at a reasonable rate.
I felt impressed by the Holy Spirit to stop in at the rental agency the day before to see what they might have for us. We had reserved a car like a Ford Fusion – but really wanted something bigger. When I entered the agency, the agent remembered me from the previous years, and told me, “Brother, I don’t have anything today, but I have two SUV’s coming in tonight. I will save the best one for you!” The next day, he had a Nissan Murano cleaned and ready for us! It fully met the need we had to move things from California to Iowa, and comfortable to drive and ride in as well! We will not keep this car for the entire time – each month they will call us to “renew” the lease, and take the miles we have driven. If the car is in need of service, we will either take it in for service and wait for it, or they will replace it. Already, we have put nearly 4,000 miles on the vehicle. We are trusting God for continued favor for a vehicle of equivalent size and gas mileage as we move from month to month!
Our trip to Iowa was very nice. We stopped in Utah to have dinner with our good friends, Pastor Kathy and Norm Mincer. From there we went to Nebraska, where we just slept the night! We arrived in Iowa on the third day, visiting my aunt and Dad before coming to our home here in Cedar Falls in the evening!
Donna and I are doing well. I have been experiencing a great deal of back pain since the first part of April – but sense the Holy Spirit is telling us that we need to relax and rest for a few weeks before really hitting the road again. My schedule really didn’t allow for that – we had our first service in the US the first Friday after arriving in California, sharing at a small Bible Study that day, and then sharing with our home church on that Sunday. We had nothing scheduled for the following Sunday, and a family gathering and service this past Sunday. We were scheduled for nearly every week after this week until mid-October.
About three days ago, the pastor of the church in Kansas City where we were to be this coming Sunday called to say that if he was Kenyan, he would postpone our meeting – but since he knew that we were American, and he was trying to be one as well, he would honor his commitment. After we talked a bit, the Holy Spirit spoke to me, and said, “This is Holy Spirit! I want you to stay in Cedar Falls and rest for another week.” So, we are staying in a modified rest mode for the next week or so, trusting God for complete healing in every way. He is our healer – we have been healed because of the work of Christ Jesus!
Above I mentioned “Modified rest mode” for a reason – while we are “resting”, we are not idle! Donna and I are working hard to get unpacked and settled into our cabin. We planted flowers in front of our cottage last week, and some in front of my dad’s cabin next door. Our cottage had sat unoccupied since last September, so we needed to really give it a cleaning – which we have also now completed. Both of us have set up our offices in our place now, so we can continue paperwork and emails and correspondence both to many of our partners as well as our staff and friends in Kenya. But for the most part, we plan to rest and recharge! We are catching up on some of the podcasts we miss over the past 6 months, and absorbing the great teachings we are hearing! God is faithful! Rested and recharged, we will be ready (and physically able) to do what the Lord has for us this summer!
We look forward to connecting and reconnecting with people in the US this year. God is faithful – and together, we really DO make the difference!
PS – the photo gallery below is of our activities since coming to the US
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2016
As much as I would like to get away from it, I must include a little personal news! Without a car, Donna and I have become real home-bodies! We are fortunate to be able to borrow a vehicle from Bishop Ommani weekly to go shopping for supplies, but if we can get what we need in Shibuli, I have started taking a motorcycle taxi to the village. It is only about 10 km, but the ride can really be an adventure!
We were blessed at Christmas to receive new appliances for our kitchen and new furniture for our living quarters. We had been using borrowed furniture before, so we are very grateful for new couch, chairs and dining room chairs! The appliances are also a bit larger than the ones we started with - and Donna is learning how to use them! Our new stove has four gas burners and two electric burners, and an electric oven. Of course, everything is measured in Celsius here, so we are never quite sure hot hot things are! LOL One thing that was quite humorous was that when she started using the ovens, she thought the ovens were not working properly as the tops were getting done well, but often the bottoms of the dish was not totally cooked. Turns out, she was only use the BROILER! Now we know we have a broiler, a conventional oven, a convection oven, and a rotisserie feature. We feel really blessed! Our new refrigerator is about double the size of our old one, and has really allowed us to purchase items and keep them fresh much longer!
We were so blessed to have our African Daughter, Judy, and her two children with us for three weeks in December. Her husband, Joseph, joined us for one week as well. They live and minister in Marsabit, a county in the very northern part of Kenya. Judy assisted us in our teaching at the school this term, and we had such a great time with our grandkids, Kiarie and Joy. (Joy really loves her babu!) We are hopeful to make it to Marsabit in March for a quick visit with them...pray for us to have the ability to do so!
Below are some photos of all our personal adventures! God is great! We are enjoying life!
Physically we are doing well. Both of us have had challenges with pains in our joints and lower back...but we are determined to receive a total restoration! We really enjoy living and working in Kenya - but really miss our family and friends in the US. We are looking forward to a few months in US from June through September, and hope to connect with many of you! If you are interested in having us come and share at your church, please send us a message! We will be in the Midwest of the US from the end of May until the middle of August, and on the West Coast September. If you are interested in having us just share with a small group of your friends or family, let us know - we can do an "African Tea with the Pfaltzgraff's". These small gatherings allow us to connect on a much more personal level - and Donna and I will bring African Tea and Coffee to the event to serve! Drop us a line if you are interested in sponsoring an African Tea with us!
Thank you so much for your prayers! We appreciate you all so much! Together we really DO make the difference!
As much as I would like to get away from it, I must include a little personal news! Without a car, Donna and I have become real home-bodies! We are fortunate to be able to borrow a vehicle from Bishop Ommani weekly to go shopping for supplies, but if we can get what we need in Shibuli, I have started taking a motorcycle taxi to the village. It is only about 10 km, but the ride can really be an adventure!
We were blessed at Christmas to receive new appliances for our kitchen and new furniture for our living quarters. We had been using borrowed furniture before, so we are very grateful for new couch, chairs and dining room chairs! The appliances are also a bit larger than the ones we started with - and Donna is learning how to use them! Our new stove has four gas burners and two electric burners, and an electric oven. Of course, everything is measured in Celsius here, so we are never quite sure hot hot things are! LOL One thing that was quite humorous was that when she started using the ovens, she thought the ovens were not working properly as the tops were getting done well, but often the bottoms of the dish was not totally cooked. Turns out, she was only use the BROILER! Now we know we have a broiler, a conventional oven, a convection oven, and a rotisserie feature. We feel really blessed! Our new refrigerator is about double the size of our old one, and has really allowed us to purchase items and keep them fresh much longer!
We were so blessed to have our African Daughter, Judy, and her two children with us for three weeks in December. Her husband, Joseph, joined us for one week as well. They live and minister in Marsabit, a county in the very northern part of Kenya. Judy assisted us in our teaching at the school this term, and we had such a great time with our grandkids, Kiarie and Joy. (Joy really loves her babu!) We are hopeful to make it to Marsabit in March for a quick visit with them...pray for us to have the ability to do so!
Below are some photos of all our personal adventures! God is great! We are enjoying life!
Physically we are doing well. Both of us have had challenges with pains in our joints and lower back...but we are determined to receive a total restoration! We really enjoy living and working in Kenya - but really miss our family and friends in the US. We are looking forward to a few months in US from June through September, and hope to connect with many of you! If you are interested in having us come and share at your church, please send us a message! We will be in the Midwest of the US from the end of May until the middle of August, and on the West Coast September. If you are interested in having us just share with a small group of your friends or family, let us know - we can do an "African Tea with the Pfaltzgraff's". These small gatherings allow us to connect on a much more personal level - and Donna and I will bring African Tea and Coffee to the event to serve! Drop us a line if you are interested in sponsoring an African Tea with us!
Thank you so much for your prayers! We appreciate you all so much! Together we really DO make the difference!
SUMMER 2015
In June, our family gathered at Lake Koronis near Paynesville, MN to celebrate my dad's 91st birthday! We had such a fun time reconnecting with my brothers and sisters and their families! During our times of sharing, I realized what a great heritage of faith in God we have! I thank God for our heritage of faith, and the positive influence that has been passed down in our families!
Probably the biggest news is we have moved out of our home in San Diego, CA! Many have asked us if we have sold our home, and the answer is no. In 1992, when I originally felt the call to Kenya, I was advised by our pastor to do whatever it took to purchase a home so we had a place to return when coming off the field. Our hearts bore witness to that counsel, but the house had become a challenge to us. We are fortunate to have found renters, whom we know very well. They have moved into our home, and have saved a room for us when we visit San Diego! We thank God for His provision!
Just before we left for Kenya in March, our vehicle broke down. It was not in our best interest to repair the car – it had 250,000 miles on it, and honestly would have cost more to repair than it was worth. So, in June we sold the car. We are requesting prayer for provision of a dependable vehicle here so we don’t have to continue to rent a car every time we need to take a trip! We know we are on the right track - and we are confident that God’s provision is there for us! Thank you for your prayers!
For now, we are waiting for the money and the release in the Spirit to return to Kenya. We still need to find the right storage solution, and need to move some of our items to Iowa, where we have a summer cottage. Our desire is to be in Kenya for our next school term, beginning August 17th. To make everything happen, we have quite a lot to get done! But God is always faithful and will help us get where we need to be!
Both Donna and I are in good health (people ask...what can I say!). We have driven over 6,500 miles since coming to the US in May...and we need to take at least two additional trips before heading out. Pray for all the right connections as we travel!
Thank you for caring for us - and praying for us! We value your friendship so much! Together, we really DO make the difference!
In June, our family gathered at Lake Koronis near Paynesville, MN to celebrate my dad's 91st birthday! We had such a fun time reconnecting with my brothers and sisters and their families! During our times of sharing, I realized what a great heritage of faith in God we have! I thank God for our heritage of faith, and the positive influence that has been passed down in our families!
Probably the biggest news is we have moved out of our home in San Diego, CA! Many have asked us if we have sold our home, and the answer is no. In 1992, when I originally felt the call to Kenya, I was advised by our pastor to do whatever it took to purchase a home so we had a place to return when coming off the field. Our hearts bore witness to that counsel, but the house had become a challenge to us. We are fortunate to have found renters, whom we know very well. They have moved into our home, and have saved a room for us when we visit San Diego! We thank God for His provision!
Just before we left for Kenya in March, our vehicle broke down. It was not in our best interest to repair the car – it had 250,000 miles on it, and honestly would have cost more to repair than it was worth. So, in June we sold the car. We are requesting prayer for provision of a dependable vehicle here so we don’t have to continue to rent a car every time we need to take a trip! We know we are on the right track - and we are confident that God’s provision is there for us! Thank you for your prayers!
For now, we are waiting for the money and the release in the Spirit to return to Kenya. We still need to find the right storage solution, and need to move some of our items to Iowa, where we have a summer cottage. Our desire is to be in Kenya for our next school term, beginning August 17th. To make everything happen, we have quite a lot to get done! But God is always faithful and will help us get where we need to be!
Both Donna and I are in good health (people ask...what can I say!). We have driven over 6,500 miles since coming to the US in May...and we need to take at least two additional trips before heading out. Pray for all the right connections as we travel!
Thank you for caring for us - and praying for us! We value your friendship so much! Together, we really DO make the difference!
FEBRUARY UPDATE 2015
We have had such a wonderful couple of months here lately. We are still working hard to get our house in order before we leave for Kenya, but we are on track! But we wanted to share some highlights from the past couple of months.
The end of January, we were invited to West Covina, CA to share the vision with a partner church there, Christian Faith Center. We had such great fellowship with Pastor Samuel Martinez and his wife Angela, and had a great time of ministry at his church the first Sunday of February. Also during that trip, we were so excited to visit my nephew who lives in Alhambra, CA. We did have two major down sides of that visit - the first was when we were driving from the hotel to church, our car completely cut out on us! We finally got it running again, and made it to church, and then later made it home. Since then, we have fixed it - we think. Although it has still cut off on me a couple of times since! The other down side was evidently some of the express lanes in LA are TOLL roads, not express lanes! Yep - I got a citation for not paying a toll. But over all, the time in West Covina was so wonderful!
The following weekend, we drove to Delta, Utah to visit the Faith Christian Fellowship of Delta. We left San Diego on a Thursday morning, and thanks to our daughter, spent the first night in Las Vegas, NV at her time share there. It was really nice to have a night alone - and yes, we did enjoy the jacuzzi as well! Donna had never been to a Bass Pro Shop, so we went to one that was across the interstate from where we were staying. I did find two nice short-sleeve shirts that were on sale, and we did go through the casino to a buffet for dinner. We were not impressed with the casino, nor the buffet, but we did enjoy being together!
On Friday morning, we left Nevada fairly early to continue to Utah. The scenery was so beautiful as we drove through canyons and over mountains to our destination. As we were driving, Donna said to me that she really hoped before we left for Africa we could fix a pot-roast with potatoes and carrots, pork chops, and tuna salad. I guess we eat a lot of Mexican & African at home - so I said we certainly could try to find what we needed.
By five we were in Delta, and arrived at the home of the pastors, Kathy & Norman Mincer. After unloading our car, and having a little time to chat, Kathy offered us dinner - and served us pork chops! Donna was in heaven! Saturday morning, we had home-made waffles (gluten free), and for lunch, we were served Tuna Salad! Donna was smiling! That evening, we had a pot-roast with potatoes and carrots! What a wonderful manifestation of God's love! The Mincer's had no idea that what they were to serve us would speak so specially to my wife.
Sunday was a very busy day for us - as we ministered in the FCF church in the morning, followed by a wonderful church lunch! We rested and changed clothes and then drove over an hour to a state prison in Gunnison, Utah, where we ministered in two services. This was our first time ministering in a prison - and it was amazing! In the first service, we had 51 men attend, and seven came forward to accept Jesus into their lives! The second service had 17 men, and many of them spoke to me afterward telling me how much they appreciated our coming and sharing the unconditional love of God. It was a life-changing experience for us!
We were blessed on our way home to spend another evening in a time-share in Nevada - where honestly we just chilled and vegged for a few hours! We arrived home well, changed, and totally blessed!
This past Thursday evening, we were so honored to have Pastor Marcos Nacimentos in our home. Pastor Marcos (pictured with his son and my family here) is from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Pastor Marcos had come to San Diego to minister in our home church, Destiny Church, and we had invited our pastors, Isaac & Myriam to bring Pastor Marcos and his son Taylor to share an African dinner with us. Pastor Marcos does not speak English - and we don't speak Portuguese! But we had such sweet fellowship together! We are praying about visiting Brazil in 2016, and Pastor Marcos hopes to come to Kenya also that year!
Those have been our adventures this month! On a personal level, we are holding our own! Both of us are in good health, and while a bit overwhelmed to get everything ready for upcoming trip. Pray for us as we get ready to travel to Kenya mid-March. There is a lot to do, but we will get it done!
Thank YOU for all you do for us! God never gives us a vision we can accomplish alone - but together we really DO make the difference!
We have had such a wonderful couple of months here lately. We are still working hard to get our house in order before we leave for Kenya, but we are on track! But we wanted to share some highlights from the past couple of months.
The end of January, we were invited to West Covina, CA to share the vision with a partner church there, Christian Faith Center. We had such great fellowship with Pastor Samuel Martinez and his wife Angela, and had a great time of ministry at his church the first Sunday of February. Also during that trip, we were so excited to visit my nephew who lives in Alhambra, CA. We did have two major down sides of that visit - the first was when we were driving from the hotel to church, our car completely cut out on us! We finally got it running again, and made it to church, and then later made it home. Since then, we have fixed it - we think. Although it has still cut off on me a couple of times since! The other down side was evidently some of the express lanes in LA are TOLL roads, not express lanes! Yep - I got a citation for not paying a toll. But over all, the time in West Covina was so wonderful!
The following weekend, we drove to Delta, Utah to visit the Faith Christian Fellowship of Delta. We left San Diego on a Thursday morning, and thanks to our daughter, spent the first night in Las Vegas, NV at her time share there. It was really nice to have a night alone - and yes, we did enjoy the jacuzzi as well! Donna had never been to a Bass Pro Shop, so we went to one that was across the interstate from where we were staying. I did find two nice short-sleeve shirts that were on sale, and we did go through the casino to a buffet for dinner. We were not impressed with the casino, nor the buffet, but we did enjoy being together!
On Friday morning, we left Nevada fairly early to continue to Utah. The scenery was so beautiful as we drove through canyons and over mountains to our destination. As we were driving, Donna said to me that she really hoped before we left for Africa we could fix a pot-roast with potatoes and carrots, pork chops, and tuna salad. I guess we eat a lot of Mexican & African at home - so I said we certainly could try to find what we needed.
By five we were in Delta, and arrived at the home of the pastors, Kathy & Norman Mincer. After unloading our car, and having a little time to chat, Kathy offered us dinner - and served us pork chops! Donna was in heaven! Saturday morning, we had home-made waffles (gluten free), and for lunch, we were served Tuna Salad! Donna was smiling! That evening, we had a pot-roast with potatoes and carrots! What a wonderful manifestation of God's love! The Mincer's had no idea that what they were to serve us would speak so specially to my wife.
Sunday was a very busy day for us - as we ministered in the FCF church in the morning, followed by a wonderful church lunch! We rested and changed clothes and then drove over an hour to a state prison in Gunnison, Utah, where we ministered in two services. This was our first time ministering in a prison - and it was amazing! In the first service, we had 51 men attend, and seven came forward to accept Jesus into their lives! The second service had 17 men, and many of them spoke to me afterward telling me how much they appreciated our coming and sharing the unconditional love of God. It was a life-changing experience for us!
We were blessed on our way home to spend another evening in a time-share in Nevada - where honestly we just chilled and vegged for a few hours! We arrived home well, changed, and totally blessed!
This past Thursday evening, we were so honored to have Pastor Marcos Nacimentos in our home. Pastor Marcos (pictured with his son and my family here) is from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Pastor Marcos had come to San Diego to minister in our home church, Destiny Church, and we had invited our pastors, Isaac & Myriam to bring Pastor Marcos and his son Taylor to share an African dinner with us. Pastor Marcos does not speak English - and we don't speak Portuguese! But we had such sweet fellowship together! We are praying about visiting Brazil in 2016, and Pastor Marcos hopes to come to Kenya also that year!
Those have been our adventures this month! On a personal level, we are holding our own! Both of us are in good health, and while a bit overwhelmed to get everything ready for upcoming trip. Pray for us as we get ready to travel to Kenya mid-March. There is a lot to do, but we will get it done!
Thank YOU for all you do for us! God never gives us a vision we can accomplish alone - but together we really DO make the difference!
JANUARY UPDATE 2015
Donna and I first want to wish all of our family, friends and partners a very Happy New Year! We are praying for you to realize fully His unconditional love for you!
Donna and I have started the arduous task of packing most of our house before we head to Africa at the end of next month. Many people have read my posts on facebook that we are packing, and have asked if we are selling our house in San Diego. No, we are not. In 1992, when we moved from Tucson, AZ to San Diego, CA, the Holy Spirit spoke to us and said He was putting us in a house, and then He would put us on the mission field. Many of our advisors have strongly advised us to do whatever it takes to keep our house here, as one day we may come back to the US on a full time basis.
Our plans are to live nearly full time in Kenya starting in 2016. We have lived in this house for nearly 20 years - and decided the best route was to pack up the house, purge, shred and sell! Some of the items we have in our home we will hope to move to Iowa, where we have a summer place. Some we will sell. Some we will leave in the house, and some we will throw. It's a good thing - but it is a difficult thing as well. We started with our offices...and took four days to go through every drawer and cabinet. Now, we will begin on the garage this week. I estimate it will take a good 5-10 days to go through everything there - but after that, it should be pretty smooth sailing! Thank you for your continued prayers on our behalf as we prepare for the next stage of our lives and ministry.
The next few weeks will be full. We are sharing the Word in a couple of smaller groups between now and the end of January - then will be in West Covina, CA and Delta UT the first part of February. We are still available for those in the Southern California, Arizona, Nevada areas who might like us to come and share with them about what God is doing in Kenya. God is faithful, and we continue to rejoice in all He is doing!
Thank you for your continued support of our lives and ministry! You are very special to us! Together, we really DO make the difference.
Donna and I first want to wish all of our family, friends and partners a very Happy New Year! We are praying for you to realize fully His unconditional love for you!
Donna and I have started the arduous task of packing most of our house before we head to Africa at the end of next month. Many people have read my posts on facebook that we are packing, and have asked if we are selling our house in San Diego. No, we are not. In 1992, when we moved from Tucson, AZ to San Diego, CA, the Holy Spirit spoke to us and said He was putting us in a house, and then He would put us on the mission field. Many of our advisors have strongly advised us to do whatever it takes to keep our house here, as one day we may come back to the US on a full time basis.
Our plans are to live nearly full time in Kenya starting in 2016. We have lived in this house for nearly 20 years - and decided the best route was to pack up the house, purge, shred and sell! Some of the items we have in our home we will hope to move to Iowa, where we have a summer place. Some we will sell. Some we will leave in the house, and some we will throw. It's a good thing - but it is a difficult thing as well. We started with our offices...and took four days to go through every drawer and cabinet. Now, we will begin on the garage this week. I estimate it will take a good 5-10 days to go through everything there - but after that, it should be pretty smooth sailing! Thank you for your continued prayers on our behalf as we prepare for the next stage of our lives and ministry.
The next few weeks will be full. We are sharing the Word in a couple of smaller groups between now and the end of January - then will be in West Covina, CA and Delta UT the first part of February. We are still available for those in the Southern California, Arizona, Nevada areas who might like us to come and share with them about what God is doing in Kenya. God is faithful, and we continue to rejoice in all He is doing!
Thank you for your continued support of our lives and ministry! You are very special to us! Together, we really DO make the difference.
DECEMBER 2014 PERSONAL NEWS
I am not the best at writing this column! In October of this year, Donna had arthroscopic knee surgery to repair a tear of the meniscus that occurred about 18 months ago. Her recovery has been so good. They surgeon says that he is confident that she will have no pain as her recovery continues.
Shortly after her surgery, we left for the Midwest again to share the vision of Grace & Faith Family Ministries. We spent time with partners and friends in New Mexico and Oklahoma, then headed to Iowa. On our way to Iowa, our vehicle broke down. Fortunately, we were able to get the vehicle repaired and we arrived in Iowa 8 hours late, but safe. We spent a couple of days at our Iowa home (with no water or gas), then headed to Wisconsin to share the Word with a great church in Green Bay.
From Green Bay we spent a day with Donna’s sister in Illinois, then I spent five days with my dad, sister and nephew in Branson, Missouri, while my wife spent the five days in Des Moines with my aunt. For the first time in over 20 years, we spent Thanksgiving with my family in Paton, Iowa. Let’s say we have had enough of the Midwest Winter weather! Thanksgiving morning, when we pulled into my cousin’s drive, our car registered the outside air at a minus 3 degrees! And yes, there was snow! But we had a great time reconnecting with our family!
From Iowa, we headed to Colorado, where we spent one night with my cousin in Peetz, then went to Pueblo to minister at the FCF church there. We had such a great experience in Pueblo. In the 80’s we started a church in Colorado City, Colorado. One of the members of the FCF church at that time in Pueblo connected us to her mother, who rented us a house in Rye. It was our home for over 3 years…and we really loved it there. We had not connected with them since leaving, but were able to find our friend and had lunch. When her mom went to be with Jesus in the 90’s, they found a bible that Donna and I had given her. She was so happy to return the Bible to us – and we were so full of memories and great stories of our time in Rye.
From Colorado, we headed home. The trip was quite uneventful, except the latch to our trunk broke in New Mexico. Thank God for bungee cords…which kept the trunk at least somewhat shut for the 800 mile trip home. (We are still believing God to repair the vehicle before our next trip the end of this month!) We drove over 5,000 miles from November 9 through December 4…it was a long trip, but very rewarding.
When we got home, we pulled out all of our Christmas decorations to decorate our home. We will be going through everything as we separate things that our daughter wants to keep, things we will store, things we will take to Kenya, and things we will get rid of. In January we will begin the task of going through our home and packing things for storage, things to move to Kenya, things we will move to Iowa, and things we will dispose of. After living in the house for nearly 20 years, I am honestly very afraid! LOL To complicate things, many of the items we would just normally pack away we need to leave available until we actually move out in July. So, if you have a knack for packing, and want to come help, let us know! J
We are so grateful to God for the ability to travel together full time this year. It has been one of the most fulfilling years of our lives! We look forward to 2015, and all the joys and challenges it will present! We cherish our partners, friends and family so much! Thank you for being you! We celebrate your uniqueness, and your commitment to love us! Together we really DO make the difference.
I am not the best at writing this column! In October of this year, Donna had arthroscopic knee surgery to repair a tear of the meniscus that occurred about 18 months ago. Her recovery has been so good. They surgeon says that he is confident that she will have no pain as her recovery continues.
Shortly after her surgery, we left for the Midwest again to share the vision of Grace & Faith Family Ministries. We spent time with partners and friends in New Mexico and Oklahoma, then headed to Iowa. On our way to Iowa, our vehicle broke down. Fortunately, we were able to get the vehicle repaired and we arrived in Iowa 8 hours late, but safe. We spent a couple of days at our Iowa home (with no water or gas), then headed to Wisconsin to share the Word with a great church in Green Bay.
From Green Bay we spent a day with Donna’s sister in Illinois, then I spent five days with my dad, sister and nephew in Branson, Missouri, while my wife spent the five days in Des Moines with my aunt. For the first time in over 20 years, we spent Thanksgiving with my family in Paton, Iowa. Let’s say we have had enough of the Midwest Winter weather! Thanksgiving morning, when we pulled into my cousin’s drive, our car registered the outside air at a minus 3 degrees! And yes, there was snow! But we had a great time reconnecting with our family!
From Iowa, we headed to Colorado, where we spent one night with my cousin in Peetz, then went to Pueblo to minister at the FCF church there. We had such a great experience in Pueblo. In the 80’s we started a church in Colorado City, Colorado. One of the members of the FCF church at that time in Pueblo connected us to her mother, who rented us a house in Rye. It was our home for over 3 years…and we really loved it there. We had not connected with them since leaving, but were able to find our friend and had lunch. When her mom went to be with Jesus in the 90’s, they found a bible that Donna and I had given her. She was so happy to return the Bible to us – and we were so full of memories and great stories of our time in Rye.
From Colorado, we headed home. The trip was quite uneventful, except the latch to our trunk broke in New Mexico. Thank God for bungee cords…which kept the trunk at least somewhat shut for the 800 mile trip home. (We are still believing God to repair the vehicle before our next trip the end of this month!) We drove over 5,000 miles from November 9 through December 4…it was a long trip, but very rewarding.
When we got home, we pulled out all of our Christmas decorations to decorate our home. We will be going through everything as we separate things that our daughter wants to keep, things we will store, things we will take to Kenya, and things we will get rid of. In January we will begin the task of going through our home and packing things for storage, things to move to Kenya, things we will move to Iowa, and things we will dispose of. After living in the house for nearly 20 years, I am honestly very afraid! LOL To complicate things, many of the items we would just normally pack away we need to leave available until we actually move out in July. So, if you have a knack for packing, and want to come help, let us know! J
We are so grateful to God for the ability to travel together full time this year. It has been one of the most fulfilling years of our lives! We look forward to 2015, and all the joys and challenges it will present! We cherish our partners, friends and family so much! Thank you for being you! We celebrate your uniqueness, and your commitment to love us! Together we really DO make the difference.
PERSONAL NEWS FALL 2014
Since the end of May, Donna and I have been traveling in the United States sharing wherever we can about the ministry of Jesus Christ in East Africa. In August, it became apparent that we were going to be delayed in our plans to return to Kenya. While it looked to us as if the enemy had attacked us, it was indeed for good! We decided at the last minute to attend the Victory Christian Center's Word Explosion 14 and the IVBI Director's meeting in Tulsa. We had planned to drive over to Tulsa, stay a week, and come home to prepare to leave for Kenya. However, once we arrived in Tulsa, we sensed the Spirit leading us to Iowa for another season. During this time, God really dealt with us to enter into His rest.
Rest is not something we know much about! We have pretty much stayed busy whether in the US or in Kenya. So, when the Holy Spirit dealt with us to "enter His rest," we were a bit resistant. We don't really know how to rest! But God dealt with us to simply rest in His finished work. We spent four weeks in Iowa enjoying each other, working on our cabin there, and spending a lot of time in the word and prayer. It was so good!
The end of September, we took a trip to Colorado for the Andrew Wommack Minister's Conference in Colorado Springs. It was such a blessing! During that week, the Lord dealt with us again that He had a plan for us remaining in the US - and a part of that plan was for Donna to have knee surgery, and for the two of us to have dental work done. It is also a time where God wanted to stretch the ministry in East Africa - to turn dependence from us to Him. There are other things the Lord wanted us to do while we are here, and we are excited to be able to obey the Holy Spirit!
So for now, we are in California until the 11th of November, when we head to Green Bay, Wi for a meeting, Branson, MO for a mini-vacation (for me, Donna will stay in Iowa for the few days I go with my dad), and then Colorado as we head back to California. We plan to spend Christmas in our home, and New Years with our church family in Tucson, Arizona. We sense we will return to Kenya in February, although it will only be for a short season. We appreciate the "rest of God" so much, and have found there is no room for stress when you are following the Holy Spirit!
We want to thank our partners and friends for your support of our work in East Africa. God is so faithful! Together, we really DO make the difference!
Since the end of May, Donna and I have been traveling in the United States sharing wherever we can about the ministry of Jesus Christ in East Africa. In August, it became apparent that we were going to be delayed in our plans to return to Kenya. While it looked to us as if the enemy had attacked us, it was indeed for good! We decided at the last minute to attend the Victory Christian Center's Word Explosion 14 and the IVBI Director's meeting in Tulsa. We had planned to drive over to Tulsa, stay a week, and come home to prepare to leave for Kenya. However, once we arrived in Tulsa, we sensed the Spirit leading us to Iowa for another season. During this time, God really dealt with us to enter into His rest.
Rest is not something we know much about! We have pretty much stayed busy whether in the US or in Kenya. So, when the Holy Spirit dealt with us to "enter His rest," we were a bit resistant. We don't really know how to rest! But God dealt with us to simply rest in His finished work. We spent four weeks in Iowa enjoying each other, working on our cabin there, and spending a lot of time in the word and prayer. It was so good!
The end of September, we took a trip to Colorado for the Andrew Wommack Minister's Conference in Colorado Springs. It was such a blessing! During that week, the Lord dealt with us again that He had a plan for us remaining in the US - and a part of that plan was for Donna to have knee surgery, and for the two of us to have dental work done. It is also a time where God wanted to stretch the ministry in East Africa - to turn dependence from us to Him. There are other things the Lord wanted us to do while we are here, and we are excited to be able to obey the Holy Spirit!
So for now, we are in California until the 11th of November, when we head to Green Bay, Wi for a meeting, Branson, MO for a mini-vacation (for me, Donna will stay in Iowa for the few days I go with my dad), and then Colorado as we head back to California. We plan to spend Christmas in our home, and New Years with our church family in Tucson, Arizona. We sense we will return to Kenya in February, although it will only be for a short season. We appreciate the "rest of God" so much, and have found there is no room for stress when you are following the Holy Spirit!
We want to thank our partners and friends for your support of our work in East Africa. God is so faithful! Together, we really DO make the difference!
PERSONAL NEWS SUMMER 2014
Donna and I are happy to be back in the United States for a short while. It is always difficult to leave – whether we are leaving the US for Kenya, or Kenya for the US. But we are equally happy to arrive – whether it be in Kenya or the US.
We are grandparents! May 19, we welcomed JoyAnna to our family. Our African daughter, Judy, and her husband Joseph are the proud parents! Judy and Joseph live and minister in Marsabit, but were in Nairobi for the birth of their first child. We were not able to see JoyAnna, but we look forward to proper introductions in September or October, when we hope to travel to Marsabit for a visit!
Since arriving in the United States, Donna and I have been traveling through the US. This is a mixture of ministry and family business. We have traveled to Oklahoma, Iowa and then to Minnesota to celebrate the 90th birthday of my dad, Richard. All of my brothers and sisters gathered in Paynesville, MN for a four day celebration of my dad’s life! I am personally so excited that one of my African brothers, Frank, and his wife came from Nigeria! Although they have been to the states, we have generally been in Africa when they are here – and in Africa, we are on opposite sides! It was excellent to see Frank and Ella again after nearly 37 years! I have a large family – and we are excited to see all of those that came out – a total of over 40!
Growing up, our family used to spend our summers at our cottage in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Recently, my family has agreed to allow us to use the cottage as our base in the Midwest! So, we took a couple of weeks alone there in June and July, and fully enjoyed our time! We also visited family in Kansas City, MO, a conference in Tulsa, OK, then visited Tulsa once again on our way back to California.
Since being back in California, we have ministered in Cambria, CA, and enjoyed four days along the central coast! What a view! We were blessed beyond words! We also shared at a minister's luncheon in West Covina, CA and ministered at our home church, Destiny Church of San Diego.
Now, we are preparing to "hit the road" once again! We are heading to Tulsa again for an IVBI Director's meeting on the 10th and 11th of August, then will prayerfully have some stops along the way where we can share what God is doing in East Africa. Pray for us for open doors!
Thanks for loving and caring for us! We appreciate it so much! God never gives us a vision we can accomplish alone – but together we really DO make the difference.
Donna and I are happy to be back in the United States for a short while. It is always difficult to leave – whether we are leaving the US for Kenya, or Kenya for the US. But we are equally happy to arrive – whether it be in Kenya or the US.
We are grandparents! May 19, we welcomed JoyAnna to our family. Our African daughter, Judy, and her husband Joseph are the proud parents! Judy and Joseph live and minister in Marsabit, but were in Nairobi for the birth of their first child. We were not able to see JoyAnna, but we look forward to proper introductions in September or October, when we hope to travel to Marsabit for a visit!
Since arriving in the United States, Donna and I have been traveling through the US. This is a mixture of ministry and family business. We have traveled to Oklahoma, Iowa and then to Minnesota to celebrate the 90th birthday of my dad, Richard. All of my brothers and sisters gathered in Paynesville, MN for a four day celebration of my dad’s life! I am personally so excited that one of my African brothers, Frank, and his wife came from Nigeria! Although they have been to the states, we have generally been in Africa when they are here – and in Africa, we are on opposite sides! It was excellent to see Frank and Ella again after nearly 37 years! I have a large family – and we are excited to see all of those that came out – a total of over 40!
Growing up, our family used to spend our summers at our cottage in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Recently, my family has agreed to allow us to use the cottage as our base in the Midwest! So, we took a couple of weeks alone there in June and July, and fully enjoyed our time! We also visited family in Kansas City, MO, a conference in Tulsa, OK, then visited Tulsa once again on our way back to California.
Since being back in California, we have ministered in Cambria, CA, and enjoyed four days along the central coast! What a view! We were blessed beyond words! We also shared at a minister's luncheon in West Covina, CA and ministered at our home church, Destiny Church of San Diego.
Now, we are preparing to "hit the road" once again! We are heading to Tulsa again for an IVBI Director's meeting on the 10th and 11th of August, then will prayerfully have some stops along the way where we can share what God is doing in East Africa. Pray for us for open doors!
Thanks for loving and caring for us! We appreciate it so much! God never gives us a vision we can accomplish alone – but together we really DO make the difference.
Under our personal news this month, we want to highlight some of our personal needs and desires here in Kenya. When we responded to the call to come to Kenya, the people of Ematsayi BALL Mission (Bible and Literacy League of Kenya) graciously offered us a home to use, and provided a couple of chairs, a sofa, and a couple of tales. We were able to purchase a couple of beds for the house, a refrigerator, and some chairs. A partner of this ministry purchased a stove and micro-wave oven for our home, along with a few pots and pans. So, little by little, we have been able to put a few things together to make us feel at home in Kenya.
Below are some pictures of our home as it is just now. We do not view our living conditions as being bad or hard – but there are things that we miss so much!
Now, we need to step up a bit. The people who loaned us furniture could really use that furniture again – so we need to furnish our house and complete some of the projects we have started. Below is a wish list from our home to yours – we ask that you pray over these items with us, that we might be able to get them as soon as possible.
This is not really a plea for money – it is just putting out there some of the things we need to get here in Kenya for our home. We are asking our partners, friends and family to stand in agreement with us for the ability to get these things purchased! Thank you! Together, we really DO make the difference!
Below are some pictures of our home as it is just now. We do not view our living conditions as being bad or hard – but there are things that we miss so much!
Now, we need to step up a bit. The people who loaned us furniture could really use that furniture again – so we need to furnish our house and complete some of the projects we have started. Below is a wish list from our home to yours – we ask that you pray over these items with us, that we might be able to get them as soon as possible.
- LIVING ROOM – Sofa, two chairs, long narrow sofa table, coffee table, large area rug, flat screen TV (Estimated cost - $1,500.00
- DINING ROOM – Table with six chairs, Large area rug (Estimated cost - $500.00)
- BEDROOMS – Mattress and dresser, two large area rugs (Estimated cost - $400.00)
- KITCHEN – Under-counter cabinets & countertop, sink, large cabinet, kitchen cabinets over the counter, new refrigerator, and electrical work – new light fixtures over stove, sink and counters. (Cost is estimated at $600.00 for kitchen build out, $800.00 for new appliances)
- MISC ITEMS – Generator – large enough to run the power for the entire compound – cost is around $1,200.00 USD.
This is not really a plea for money – it is just putting out there some of the things we need to get here in Kenya for our home. We are asking our partners, friends and family to stand in agreement with us for the ability to get these things purchased! Thank you! Together, we really DO make the difference!
Personal News - February 2014
Probably the most common remark made when we see friends is “My, Donna looks so good!” Of course she does! LOL I asked her to share her thoughts for our personal news this month:
It is amazing what Peace you feel even in the face of adversity when you are walking in the will of God. There were many questions asked of me after my first extended time in Africa. The most interesting question is how are you enjoying retirement? LOL and that is a big, big LOL as I think I am working harder than when working in the secular work field. But, the answer to that question is it is great!
When it came time to leave Africa I left with many mixed emotions. Yes we had great trials, discouragement, feelings of loneliness, lack, anger, confusion, etcetera. But I would not change it for anything as along with the entire negative aspect there was greater reward because we are right in the middle of God’s will. So I am well satisfied to be in Africa and am looking forward to the new things God has in store for us.
Grace and Peace,
Donna
During the past month, we were able to enjoy visiting family and spending a couple of days alone. We spent a couple of days with my dad in Des Moines, IA - he is in good health, and still working three jobs! I trust that when I push 90, I will still be strong, active and working!! We went to our cottage in Cedar Falls, IA to spend a couple of days "alone", although we did host my nephew and his girlfriend and my cousin's wife and daughter for dinner one evening. Other than that, we spent two days with our feet up by the fire!! It was really relaxing! After Cedar Falls, we drove to Galena, IL to visit Donna's sister and husband. Her sister showered Donna with some much needed kitchen utensils for Kenya! We had a great visit! We then returned to Des Moines, where we spent time with my brothers, my younger sister, and my dad. We are so grateful for family connection! (Slideshow below are some personal photos of our travels.)
I am so happy that Donna and I are once again working side by side. Since this is February, I wanted to honor my valentine! It is such a joy and honor to work with Donna full time in Kenya - and have her with me as we travel in the United States. We are in our 40th year of marriage - and life just gets better! We are enjoying our time in the United States, but honestly, we are ready to go back!
Thank you for standing with us in ministry! Together we really DO make the difference!
Probably the most common remark made when we see friends is “My, Donna looks so good!” Of course she does! LOL I asked her to share her thoughts for our personal news this month:
It is amazing what Peace you feel even in the face of adversity when you are walking in the will of God. There were many questions asked of me after my first extended time in Africa. The most interesting question is how are you enjoying retirement? LOL and that is a big, big LOL as I think I am working harder than when working in the secular work field. But, the answer to that question is it is great!
When it came time to leave Africa I left with many mixed emotions. Yes we had great trials, discouragement, feelings of loneliness, lack, anger, confusion, etcetera. But I would not change it for anything as along with the entire negative aspect there was greater reward because we are right in the middle of God’s will. So I am well satisfied to be in Africa and am looking forward to the new things God has in store for us.
Grace and Peace,
Donna
During the past month, we were able to enjoy visiting family and spending a couple of days alone. We spent a couple of days with my dad in Des Moines, IA - he is in good health, and still working three jobs! I trust that when I push 90, I will still be strong, active and working!! We went to our cottage in Cedar Falls, IA to spend a couple of days "alone", although we did host my nephew and his girlfriend and my cousin's wife and daughter for dinner one evening. Other than that, we spent two days with our feet up by the fire!! It was really relaxing! After Cedar Falls, we drove to Galena, IL to visit Donna's sister and husband. Her sister showered Donna with some much needed kitchen utensils for Kenya! We had a great visit! We then returned to Des Moines, where we spent time with my brothers, my younger sister, and my dad. We are so grateful for family connection! (Slideshow below are some personal photos of our travels.)
I am so happy that Donna and I are once again working side by side. Since this is February, I wanted to honor my valentine! It is such a joy and honor to work with Donna full time in Kenya - and have her with me as we travel in the United States. We are in our 40th year of marriage - and life just gets better! We are enjoying our time in the United States, but honestly, we are ready to go back!
Thank you for standing with us in ministry! Together we really DO make the difference!
Personal News - December 2013
First of all, Donna and I wish to extend to your our best wishes for a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! We are facing the next few weeks with mixed emotions – looking forward to being in the US with friends and family for Christmas, but leaving our home in Kenya for a season!
On the personal front, Donna and I have continued to struggle with small health issues – nothing major, just petty little stuff that drives a guy crazy! We just continue to stand on the Word and reflect in the image of Jesus – the picture of our health and healing! How we thank God that His healing power is for ALL that comes against our body! And we rejoice as we continue to walk day by day in His healing!
These past few months in Kenya have been so busy, so full, and so fast! We had more visitors from the US this trip than we have had in any year up to now! And it was so much fun! Thank you to those who came to stay with us – we appreciate you so much on a personal level!
One of our visitors asked us if we had a “wish list” of things we would like in Kenya – not so much on a ministry level, but personal. We honestly didn’t – at least not written. And honestly, I don’t think we still have anything written! BUT we are working on it! If you want to see our “personal” wish list, let us know – once we have it started, we’ll be sure to share it!
Finally, we are possibly taking a road trip from San Diego to Iowa and back in January. We will start out on December 30, going to Tucson, AZ for about a week. While in Tucson, we will meet with our board members there, meet with Pastor Louise Brock, and Dr. Carl Conley as we plan 2014 and beyond! We will stay in Tucson until the 7th of January. If you are in Tucson, Phoenix, or somewhere close, consider hosting a coffee time for Donna and me. We can bring some coffee and tea from Kenya, and sit a share what God is doing in East Africa through Grace & Faith Family Ministries!
From Tucson, we will go to Grants, NM for two days, then head toward Iowa. If you live in New Mexico, Colorado, Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas, and would like us to come and share what we are doing either in a church setting, small group, home fellowship or coffee, please contact us! You can call us at our ministry number in the US – 619-840-9673, or drop me an email at Revpeterp@gffmi.org. We want to stay busy while in the US – and need very much to connect with people who might like to help us reach these African nations for Jesus! We will be traveling as from 8th January through 25th January, when we will be ending in West Covina, CA for a minister’s fellowship there.
If you live in California, Nevada, Utah or Oregon, we might consider a road trip your way as well! Let us know!! We would love to have opportunities to share what God is doing through GFFMI in East Africa!
Below you will find pictures of Donna's special children in Kakamega! We had eight puppies, however one puppy died just before we left.
Thank you for all you do in standing with us in ministry! Together we really DO make the difference!
First of all, Donna and I wish to extend to your our best wishes for a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! We are facing the next few weeks with mixed emotions – looking forward to being in the US with friends and family for Christmas, but leaving our home in Kenya for a season!
On the personal front, Donna and I have continued to struggle with small health issues – nothing major, just petty little stuff that drives a guy crazy! We just continue to stand on the Word and reflect in the image of Jesus – the picture of our health and healing! How we thank God that His healing power is for ALL that comes against our body! And we rejoice as we continue to walk day by day in His healing!
These past few months in Kenya have been so busy, so full, and so fast! We had more visitors from the US this trip than we have had in any year up to now! And it was so much fun! Thank you to those who came to stay with us – we appreciate you so much on a personal level!
One of our visitors asked us if we had a “wish list” of things we would like in Kenya – not so much on a ministry level, but personal. We honestly didn’t – at least not written. And honestly, I don’t think we still have anything written! BUT we are working on it! If you want to see our “personal” wish list, let us know – once we have it started, we’ll be sure to share it!
Finally, we are possibly taking a road trip from San Diego to Iowa and back in January. We will start out on December 30, going to Tucson, AZ for about a week. While in Tucson, we will meet with our board members there, meet with Pastor Louise Brock, and Dr. Carl Conley as we plan 2014 and beyond! We will stay in Tucson until the 7th of January. If you are in Tucson, Phoenix, or somewhere close, consider hosting a coffee time for Donna and me. We can bring some coffee and tea from Kenya, and sit a share what God is doing in East Africa through Grace & Faith Family Ministries!
From Tucson, we will go to Grants, NM for two days, then head toward Iowa. If you live in New Mexico, Colorado, Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas, and would like us to come and share what we are doing either in a church setting, small group, home fellowship or coffee, please contact us! You can call us at our ministry number in the US – 619-840-9673, or drop me an email at Revpeterp@gffmi.org. We want to stay busy while in the US – and need very much to connect with people who might like to help us reach these African nations for Jesus! We will be traveling as from 8th January through 25th January, when we will be ending in West Covina, CA for a minister’s fellowship there.
If you live in California, Nevada, Utah or Oregon, we might consider a road trip your way as well! Let us know!! We would love to have opportunities to share what God is doing through GFFMI in East Africa!
Below you will find pictures of Donna's special children in Kakamega! We had eight puppies, however one puppy died just before we left.
Thank you for all you do in standing with us in ministry! Together we really DO make the difference!
Personal News - November 2013
What a personal testimony we have this month! When we left for Kenya in August, Donna had a possibility of employment while being in Kenya. However, nothing ever seemed to work out. We had planned on her employment to cover some of our expenses in the US. Once we arrived here, it became evident that the opportunities we thought she had were no longer options, AND the work she had been asked to do here was more extensive than we had anticipated! So, we had to trust God! We thank God that the needs we are facing in the US are being met! God is showing himself faithful in every way! Thank you for your prayers for us as we fulfill God’s call to Kenya!
Another great experience we had was taking our very first safari in Kenya! God is so good to us, and we had such favor, that for about $25.00 USD, three of us went on Safari in Masai Mara! The entry fee for tourists runs over $100.00 per person – but God gave us favor, and we were able to find a guide to take us in our vehicle around the mara. What a great experience! We saw two pods of lions, hyena, gazelle, buffalo, wildebeest, zebra, crocodiles, hippos and a number of different birds! It was very exciting! The pictures below show some of our safari – enjoy!!
Donna is doing so well adjusting to life in the bush. I am really proud of her – but it is the grace of God! She is working very hard to try to make the clinic a winning proposition for the mission and the area…but sometimes changing the minds of people takes a great deal of time and patience!
Both Donna and I have struggled a bit health wise the past few weeks – but we are declaring with no reservation that Jesus is our healer, and we HAVE BEEN healed! Every day we are getting better and better! We thank God for health that belongs to us!
When we left for Nairobi on November 1 for a few days, our lady who worked with us quit abruptly. We were both sad and disappointed! She had been a good cook, and worked well with our dietary issues. When we arrived home, the mission had secured a new young lady to work for us – that first night, I could see fear in her eyes – she had no confidence that she would be able to adjust working for a mzungu! By morning, she had left. So, we asked for the Mama Kanisa (Church mother) of the Ematsayi church if she would agree to work for us at least for a season – and it is working well! We thank God for His perfect provision in our lives!
What a personal testimony we have this month! When we left for Kenya in August, Donna had a possibility of employment while being in Kenya. However, nothing ever seemed to work out. We had planned on her employment to cover some of our expenses in the US. Once we arrived here, it became evident that the opportunities we thought she had were no longer options, AND the work she had been asked to do here was more extensive than we had anticipated! So, we had to trust God! We thank God that the needs we are facing in the US are being met! God is showing himself faithful in every way! Thank you for your prayers for us as we fulfill God’s call to Kenya!
Another great experience we had was taking our very first safari in Kenya! God is so good to us, and we had such favor, that for about $25.00 USD, three of us went on Safari in Masai Mara! The entry fee for tourists runs over $100.00 per person – but God gave us favor, and we were able to find a guide to take us in our vehicle around the mara. What a great experience! We saw two pods of lions, hyena, gazelle, buffalo, wildebeest, zebra, crocodiles, hippos and a number of different birds! It was very exciting! The pictures below show some of our safari – enjoy!!
Donna is doing so well adjusting to life in the bush. I am really proud of her – but it is the grace of God! She is working very hard to try to make the clinic a winning proposition for the mission and the area…but sometimes changing the minds of people takes a great deal of time and patience!
Both Donna and I have struggled a bit health wise the past few weeks – but we are declaring with no reservation that Jesus is our healer, and we HAVE BEEN healed! Every day we are getting better and better! We thank God for health that belongs to us!
When we left for Nairobi on November 1 for a few days, our lady who worked with us quit abruptly. We were both sad and disappointed! She had been a good cook, and worked well with our dietary issues. When we arrived home, the mission had secured a new young lady to work for us – that first night, I could see fear in her eyes – she had no confidence that she would be able to adjust working for a mzungu! By morning, she had left. So, we asked for the Mama Kanisa (Church mother) of the Ematsayi church if she would agree to work for us at least for a season – and it is working well! We thank God for His perfect provision in our lives!
Personal News October 2013
On the personal front – things continue moving forward. Life in Africa has been good – even Donna is adjusting very well, and while she misses much of the conveniences of the West, she had begun to find her place at Ematsayi Mission and working very hard. To the side is a picture of our latest purchase – a water purifier! Thanks to Jubilee Church in Ottumwa, Iowa for assisting us with this project! This purifier makes the water from our well safe to drink, and for only about 1 shilling (under one cent) per liter! We are so happy – and enjoying drinking clean water!
I asked Donna to share something again this month, so here are her thoughts:
It is 2:55 P.M. Wednesday afternoon and I am sitting in our bedroom watching a big storm that is rolling through Ematsayi. As I sit and see the lightening, hail, and listening to the thunder it brings great peace.
I have always loved storms and they have always brought me peace and joy. It may be because as a child my dad and I would many times run out into the wind and rain and find great joy in just letting the wind and rain wash over us. It could be because I always felt safe when my dad was around, and I knew he wouldn’t do anything to put me in danger. Even when we would go to the boardwalk and watch the hurricane waves break over the boardwalk. There are so many times we can allow our storms destroy us. We have a choice to make in those times of our lives.
As I was watching and listening to the storm I recall the promises of God and it brings great hope for the future. Yes we do have storms in our lives-lack of financial support to do the things that you know God has called you too, broken down car, physical challenges, and the pain of being away from those whom you love so much. But, as the rain comes and washes away the dirt so does the Holy Spirit come to comfort you. He washes away discouragement, lack, physical attacks, loneliness, and brings you wonderful Peace, Joy, and assurance that all is well. He brings you Shalom!
It is like the old hymn, “It is Well with My Soul” that was written when the author just found that his family had been lost to the plague:
“When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, ‘It is well, it is well with my soul.’ It is well with my soul. It is well with my soul. It is well, it is well with my soul.”
“Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come. Let this blest assurance control. That Christ has regarded my helpless estate, and hath shed His own blood for my soul. It is well, with my soul; it is well, with my soul. It is well, it is well with my soul.”
So yes, it is well with my soul and I count it all joy to serve my Lord! Thank you Lord for all your blessings!
On the US front, we have advertised a room to rent in our home, and have had a couple of responses. Our daughter tells us that we may have a roommate by the end of next week – if all goes well. Continue to pray with us for a right person to rent the room!
Thank you for your partnership with us in ministry! Together we really DO make the difference!
On the personal front – things continue moving forward. Life in Africa has been good – even Donna is adjusting very well, and while she misses much of the conveniences of the West, she had begun to find her place at Ematsayi Mission and working very hard. To the side is a picture of our latest purchase – a water purifier! Thanks to Jubilee Church in Ottumwa, Iowa for assisting us with this project! This purifier makes the water from our well safe to drink, and for only about 1 shilling (under one cent) per liter! We are so happy – and enjoying drinking clean water!
I asked Donna to share something again this month, so here are her thoughts:
It is 2:55 P.M. Wednesday afternoon and I am sitting in our bedroom watching a big storm that is rolling through Ematsayi. As I sit and see the lightening, hail, and listening to the thunder it brings great peace.
I have always loved storms and they have always brought me peace and joy. It may be because as a child my dad and I would many times run out into the wind and rain and find great joy in just letting the wind and rain wash over us. It could be because I always felt safe when my dad was around, and I knew he wouldn’t do anything to put me in danger. Even when we would go to the boardwalk and watch the hurricane waves break over the boardwalk. There are so many times we can allow our storms destroy us. We have a choice to make in those times of our lives.
As I was watching and listening to the storm I recall the promises of God and it brings great hope for the future. Yes we do have storms in our lives-lack of financial support to do the things that you know God has called you too, broken down car, physical challenges, and the pain of being away from those whom you love so much. But, as the rain comes and washes away the dirt so does the Holy Spirit come to comfort you. He washes away discouragement, lack, physical attacks, loneliness, and brings you wonderful Peace, Joy, and assurance that all is well. He brings you Shalom!
It is like the old hymn, “It is Well with My Soul” that was written when the author just found that his family had been lost to the plague:
“When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, ‘It is well, it is well with my soul.’ It is well with my soul. It is well with my soul. It is well, it is well with my soul.”
“Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come. Let this blest assurance control. That Christ has regarded my helpless estate, and hath shed His own blood for my soul. It is well, with my soul; it is well, with my soul. It is well, it is well with my soul.”
So yes, it is well with my soul and I count it all joy to serve my Lord! Thank you Lord for all your blessings!
On the US front, we have advertised a room to rent in our home, and have had a couple of responses. Our daughter tells us that we may have a roommate by the end of next week – if all goes well. Continue to pray with us for a right person to rent the room!
Thank you for your partnership with us in ministry! Together we really DO make the difference!
Personal News September 2013
Well, Donna and I have begun to adjust to our life in Kenya. There seem to be daily challenges – and we have had some difficulty getting into a routine. We thought we had a busy house in San Diego – but we seldom have any time to ourselves here! People seem to come and go from our house from 7AM to after 8PM every day! I do believe once the Bible School is completed, it should slow down a bit – and we should have some time to ourselves!
I asked Donna to write something for our newsletter this month, sharing how she is adjusting personally to our move to Kenya. The following is what she wrote:
“Okay – Peter wants me to write a little of my feelings of Africa. I have to be honest; I am constantly amazed at how well I seem to be adjusting. Oh, I miss the USA and the conveniences of home, but it really isn’t that bad thus far!
I have been so busy with teaching that I haven’t had much time to think on the things of the USA. It is funny how one gets so excited at the fact you could take an actual shower and study with real lights! J
We have made wazungu (wazungu is a plural form for foreigners or white people) friends in Kakamega, and I am getting to know the students at the school. There are so many unknowns in the future, and I miss family and my church, but overall, things are going very well. “
As we have shared in the past, we had termites in our home in Kakamega, which caused the ceiling in our house to collapse in May. Thanks to a ministry partner, we were able rid the house of termites, and repair the ceiling in our home! We are very grateful for that gift! (See the slideshow below on the repairs!) In addition, we were able to sell some of our personal furniture in the US before leaving in August, and have taken that money to hire a man to build us a wardrobe. It will be a small wardrobe, but hopefully will hold the items we want to hang and lock up some of our valuables so theft will not continue to be an issue. As they were buidling the wardrobe today, a portion of the kitchen wall collapsed! Such are the joys of construction in Kenya!! Fortunately it is a fairly easy fix of patching the cement wall.
There are three personal things that we are hoping to receive here soon
We are spending so much money on drinking water! The water we have on the property is good well water, but the containers used to bring them to the house are not safe! So, we are unable to drink the water. There are water purification systems available in Kakamega for a little over $150.00 which would purify about 16 liters a day for safe consumption, without the use of electricity, or without having to boil the water! It would be such a great investment for us to purchase one of these systems.
The second item is living room furniture for our home. We are blessed that the mission has loaned us a few items so we have somewhere to sit. But, the furniture can be best used by the mission in other areas as well, and we should have our own. We are asking God for a couch, two chairs, a love seat, dining room table and chairs, and two smaller tables – a coffee table and one end table to go between our chairs. Additionally, we would like to get two carpets to lay in our living area, and one in our bedroom area.
The third major item is building up our home. We need to repurpose a bedroom into a kitchen, and build an en-suite to the master bedroom. When we moved into the mission house, we found there was not a working kitchen! We were using a Kenya jiko (a very small grill-type utility which uses either wood or charcoal) to cook on, and had a small refrigerator to try to keep our food cool. We still have the same, and use them – but a church in the US bought us a new stove last December. So we are on the way! We now hope to replace the refrigerator, and add a counter and under the counter cabinets in the kitchen.
Of course there are other personal needs here in Kenya – there seems to be a never ending list! One item we are standing for is a new pre-pay electric meter to hook our house and the administrative buildings and classrooms. The clinic, church, and other offices will be on a different meter. This will help us on so many levels! First, we will be responsible for only the power usage we use, and will help us bring the clinic to understanding what it takes to be self-supporting. With a prepaid meter, we pay in advance, and are notified when the power is about to be switched off, and we can “top off” from wherever we are to keep the electricity going, or just let it stop until we return. Although we don’t have satellite, we would also love to have a TV so we could watch videos – and we believe that soon we will have high speed internet here and would be able to have Apple TV or Roku TV. (I think I would prefer Apple TV so we can get free podcasts from the US! LOL)
Thanks for keeping us in your prayers! Little by little, we are taking our land! Together, we really DO make the difference!
PS - Donna celebrated a birthday on September 15 - the above picture was taken at her dinner! We had a great time with 26 friends in the area!
Well, Donna and I have begun to adjust to our life in Kenya. There seem to be daily challenges – and we have had some difficulty getting into a routine. We thought we had a busy house in San Diego – but we seldom have any time to ourselves here! People seem to come and go from our house from 7AM to after 8PM every day! I do believe once the Bible School is completed, it should slow down a bit – and we should have some time to ourselves!
I asked Donna to write something for our newsletter this month, sharing how she is adjusting personally to our move to Kenya. The following is what she wrote:
“Okay – Peter wants me to write a little of my feelings of Africa. I have to be honest; I am constantly amazed at how well I seem to be adjusting. Oh, I miss the USA and the conveniences of home, but it really isn’t that bad thus far!
I have been so busy with teaching that I haven’t had much time to think on the things of the USA. It is funny how one gets so excited at the fact you could take an actual shower and study with real lights! J
We have made wazungu (wazungu is a plural form for foreigners or white people) friends in Kakamega, and I am getting to know the students at the school. There are so many unknowns in the future, and I miss family and my church, but overall, things are going very well. “
As we have shared in the past, we had termites in our home in Kakamega, which caused the ceiling in our house to collapse in May. Thanks to a ministry partner, we were able rid the house of termites, and repair the ceiling in our home! We are very grateful for that gift! (See the slideshow below on the repairs!) In addition, we were able to sell some of our personal furniture in the US before leaving in August, and have taken that money to hire a man to build us a wardrobe. It will be a small wardrobe, but hopefully will hold the items we want to hang and lock up some of our valuables so theft will not continue to be an issue. As they were buidling the wardrobe today, a portion of the kitchen wall collapsed! Such are the joys of construction in Kenya!! Fortunately it is a fairly easy fix of patching the cement wall.
There are three personal things that we are hoping to receive here soon
We are spending so much money on drinking water! The water we have on the property is good well water, but the containers used to bring them to the house are not safe! So, we are unable to drink the water. There are water purification systems available in Kakamega for a little over $150.00 which would purify about 16 liters a day for safe consumption, without the use of electricity, or without having to boil the water! It would be such a great investment for us to purchase one of these systems.
The second item is living room furniture for our home. We are blessed that the mission has loaned us a few items so we have somewhere to sit. But, the furniture can be best used by the mission in other areas as well, and we should have our own. We are asking God for a couch, two chairs, a love seat, dining room table and chairs, and two smaller tables – a coffee table and one end table to go between our chairs. Additionally, we would like to get two carpets to lay in our living area, and one in our bedroom area.
The third major item is building up our home. We need to repurpose a bedroom into a kitchen, and build an en-suite to the master bedroom. When we moved into the mission house, we found there was not a working kitchen! We were using a Kenya jiko (a very small grill-type utility which uses either wood or charcoal) to cook on, and had a small refrigerator to try to keep our food cool. We still have the same, and use them – but a church in the US bought us a new stove last December. So we are on the way! We now hope to replace the refrigerator, and add a counter and under the counter cabinets in the kitchen.
Of course there are other personal needs here in Kenya – there seems to be a never ending list! One item we are standing for is a new pre-pay electric meter to hook our house and the administrative buildings and classrooms. The clinic, church, and other offices will be on a different meter. This will help us on so many levels! First, we will be responsible for only the power usage we use, and will help us bring the clinic to understanding what it takes to be self-supporting. With a prepaid meter, we pay in advance, and are notified when the power is about to be switched off, and we can “top off” from wherever we are to keep the electricity going, or just let it stop until we return. Although we don’t have satellite, we would also love to have a TV so we could watch videos – and we believe that soon we will have high speed internet here and would be able to have Apple TV or Roku TV. (I think I would prefer Apple TV so we can get free podcasts from the US! LOL)
Thanks for keeping us in your prayers! Little by little, we are taking our land! Together, we really DO make the difference!
PS - Donna celebrated a birthday on September 15 - the above picture was taken at her dinner! We had a great time with 26 friends in the area!
PERSONAL NEWS August 2013
The summer has passed so quickly! Donna and I have kept quite busy, from family to ministry. We were privileged to officiate at two weddings this summer - I love to do weddings! The end of May, Donna and I officiated at the wedding of Jared and Samantha Sylvain in Tampa, Florida. This was my first trip to Florida - and it was so nice to have a little time to explore St. Petersburg and see the beaches! In July, we officiated at the wedding of Joshua and Marlyn Paun here in San Diego. Both weddings were a joy to officiate!
Also this summer, we spent some much needed time with our extended families. We celebrated my dad's 89th birthday in June, and spent a few days with Donna's sister in Galena, Illinois. We attended the FCF Family Church Conference the end of June, and reconnected with good friends and colleagues. After the conference in Oklahoma, we flew back to San Diego for a day, then traveled to Tucson, AZ for the Faith Community Churches International Conference. We had a wonderful week of connecting with international friends and family!
While we were in Tucson, a ministry partner we had never met before came to see us, and brought us three bags of medical equipment and supplies for our hospital in Kenya. We had a great time connecting with him, and have plans for him to join us in Kenya in November!
For the past few weeks, we have been back in San Diego, preparing our home for our vacancy (even though Kierstien will continue living in our house). And, we have successfully inventoried the medical equipment and supplies donated in July. In August, I will attend a missions conference in Tulsa for a few days, and spend a few days with my family in Iowa. We then plan to leave for Kenya by the 20th of August!
It has been a full summer - but honestly, we are ready to go home to Kenya!
The summer has passed so quickly! Donna and I have kept quite busy, from family to ministry. We were privileged to officiate at two weddings this summer - I love to do weddings! The end of May, Donna and I officiated at the wedding of Jared and Samantha Sylvain in Tampa, Florida. This was my first trip to Florida - and it was so nice to have a little time to explore St. Petersburg and see the beaches! In July, we officiated at the wedding of Joshua and Marlyn Paun here in San Diego. Both weddings were a joy to officiate!
Also this summer, we spent some much needed time with our extended families. We celebrated my dad's 89th birthday in June, and spent a few days with Donna's sister in Galena, Illinois. We attended the FCF Family Church Conference the end of June, and reconnected with good friends and colleagues. After the conference in Oklahoma, we flew back to San Diego for a day, then traveled to Tucson, AZ for the Faith Community Churches International Conference. We had a wonderful week of connecting with international friends and family!
While we were in Tucson, a ministry partner we had never met before came to see us, and brought us three bags of medical equipment and supplies for our hospital in Kenya. We had a great time connecting with him, and have plans for him to join us in Kenya in November!
For the past few weeks, we have been back in San Diego, preparing our home for our vacancy (even though Kierstien will continue living in our house). And, we have successfully inventoried the medical equipment and supplies donated in July. In August, I will attend a missions conference in Tulsa for a few days, and spend a few days with my family in Iowa. We then plan to leave for Kenya by the 20th of August!
It has been a full summer - but honestly, we are ready to go home to Kenya!
PERSONAL NEWS June/July 2013
June was a fun month for our family. On May 31, we flew from San Diego to Des Moines to celebrate with my family my dad’s 89th birthday. We did mix a little ministry at first – ministering at the Minburn United Methodist Church, and then on Wednesday the 5th, we drove from Des Moines to Paynesville, Minnesota for the great celebration. There were 32 people who joined us for our celebration! Each day we had scheduled events (my family tends to be quite scheduled), a lot of eating, and a lot of talking! Each day, certain members of the family were assigned a time to share updates on their lives and events from the past year – and share some hopes and dreams for the future. On Sunday, I shared the Word in a family worship service. One of our highlights was having a free concert by Nashville recording artists, Chasing Lovely. Chasing Lovely are the daughters to my first cousin – and they really entertained us! It was such fun!
June has been a month of change. The end of May, Donna resigned from her position at Coast Surgery Center in San Diego. After much prayer and reflection, we decided together that it was more important for us to make a step of faith that we could work and be together. I believe God will honor our obedience, even though sometimes it seems a bit overwhelming!
After my dad’s celebration in Minnesota, Donna and I traveled to Cedar Falls, Iowa, where we stayed in our family cottage for a couple of weeks. During this time, we were busy putting material together for the next session of our Bible School, and setting out vision and direction for the medical ministry of Bible and Literacy League of Kenya. Okay, honestly we spent a whole lot of time just together figuring out if we really like each other still! Verdict? Yes! Thank you Jesus!
We then spent a few days in Illinois visiting Donna’s sister and family. It was a great time of reconnection and fellowship. The end of June I ministered at a church in Kansas City, MO., and then attended the Family Church Conference in Tulsa, OK. The first week of July we spent in Tucson, AZ at the Faith Community Churches International Ministers Conference.
The travel has been good – we have been in Florida, Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma and Arizona. Honestly, we are happy to be back in San Diego to start our preparations for the trip to Kenya in August.
June was a fun month for our family. On May 31, we flew from San Diego to Des Moines to celebrate with my family my dad’s 89th birthday. We did mix a little ministry at first – ministering at the Minburn United Methodist Church, and then on Wednesday the 5th, we drove from Des Moines to Paynesville, Minnesota for the great celebration. There were 32 people who joined us for our celebration! Each day we had scheduled events (my family tends to be quite scheduled), a lot of eating, and a lot of talking! Each day, certain members of the family were assigned a time to share updates on their lives and events from the past year – and share some hopes and dreams for the future. On Sunday, I shared the Word in a family worship service. One of our highlights was having a free concert by Nashville recording artists, Chasing Lovely. Chasing Lovely are the daughters to my first cousin – and they really entertained us! It was such fun!
June has been a month of change. The end of May, Donna resigned from her position at Coast Surgery Center in San Diego. After much prayer and reflection, we decided together that it was more important for us to make a step of faith that we could work and be together. I believe God will honor our obedience, even though sometimes it seems a bit overwhelming!
After my dad’s celebration in Minnesota, Donna and I traveled to Cedar Falls, Iowa, where we stayed in our family cottage for a couple of weeks. During this time, we were busy putting material together for the next session of our Bible School, and setting out vision and direction for the medical ministry of Bible and Literacy League of Kenya. Okay, honestly we spent a whole lot of time just together figuring out if we really like each other still! Verdict? Yes! Thank you Jesus!
We then spent a few days in Illinois visiting Donna’s sister and family. It was a great time of reconnection and fellowship. The end of June I ministered at a church in Kansas City, MO., and then attended the Family Church Conference in Tulsa, OK. The first week of July we spent in Tucson, AZ at the Faith Community Churches International Ministers Conference.
The travel has been good – we have been in Florida, Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma and Arizona. Honestly, we are happy to be back in San Diego to start our preparations for the trip to Kenya in August.
Personal News May 2013
We are having a great number of changes in our lives these days. In January, we had a young family from Yuma, AZ move to San Diego and had been staying with us. This month, God opened a great door for them, and they were able to move into a new home! The first of May, Donna resigned her position with COAST Surgery Center after over 15 years of service. It is time for her to join me full time on the field - so in obedience to the Holy Spirit, she agreed to make a step of faith with me! Kierstien is busy getting the house ready so she can rent out some of the bedrooms to help us meet the monthly expenses of the house. So our family room has been re-done, and plans are underway where she will move into the Master and prepare the other bedrooms for renters.
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Change is never easy. It often comes with a great deal of discomfort! And we are feeling some of that now. Sometimes you make a decision to follow God regardless, and the enemy does everything he can to discourage your decision. I was so excited that we had a home in Kakamega now that Donna and I could make home. Then, arriving in March to find termites have eaten away the ceiling completely, rats have moved into our attic, and truly our ceiling was falling all around us! Our water tank has a huge hole in it, so water leaks freely! So while I was excited when Donna agreed to move here with me, when I arrived in March anxiety began to set in, and I began to wonder if our decision was the right one. We were able to plant a garden at our home in Kakamega - and we were given a chicken and a rooster - and our chicken has laid a few eggs which we hope will be our future chicks! (Who would ever think I would raise chickens and have a garden!!)
But, I believe that God is moving! In the midst of the issues, we are seeing more open doors every day. We are hearing testimonies from our students and leaders as to the changes in their lives since sitting under our ministry. We are seeing more people (children and adults) treated for disease at our clinics. So in the midst of these changes, we see God at work!
This summer promises to be a very busy time. We will be spending a month in the Midwest - and then in California for the month of July. While in the Midwest, we will celebrate my dad's 89th birthday at Lake Koronis in Paynesville, MN. We will visit Donna's sister and hopefully see her niece and nephews and families. We will spend a week in Oklahoma at our church's Family Church Conference. Then, we will spend a week in Arizona at the FCCI International Camp Meeting. While in California, we will pack up our personal things in our home, and prepare to leave for Kenya by the first part of August.
In August, our African daughter, Judy, will be married. So we need to be back in Nairobi by 10th August for that great event. We will spend a few days in Masai Mara preparing for future ministry there, then travel to our home for our annual Women's Conference. In September, we will hold the second term of our Bible School. Donna will begin working with our medical clinic staff at Ematsayi. In November, we hope to visit Marsabit for the first time; and November will also bring visitors from the US!
Yes, we are going through changes- but change can be good. Change can be positive. Thank you for helping us make these changes! Together we really DO make the difference!
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Change is never easy. It often comes with a great deal of discomfort! And we are feeling some of that now. Sometimes you make a decision to follow God regardless, and the enemy does everything he can to discourage your decision. I was so excited that we had a home in Kakamega now that Donna and I could make home. Then, arriving in March to find termites have eaten away the ceiling completely, rats have moved into our attic, and truly our ceiling was falling all around us! Our water tank has a huge hole in it, so water leaks freely! So while I was excited when Donna agreed to move here with me, when I arrived in March anxiety began to set in, and I began to wonder if our decision was the right one. We were able to plant a garden at our home in Kakamega - and we were given a chicken and a rooster - and our chicken has laid a few eggs which we hope will be our future chicks! (Who would ever think I would raise chickens and have a garden!!)
But, I believe that God is moving! In the midst of the issues, we are seeing more open doors every day. We are hearing testimonies from our students and leaders as to the changes in their lives since sitting under our ministry. We are seeing more people (children and adults) treated for disease at our clinics. So in the midst of these changes, we see God at work!
This summer promises to be a very busy time. We will be spending a month in the Midwest - and then in California for the month of July. While in the Midwest, we will celebrate my dad's 89th birthday at Lake Koronis in Paynesville, MN. We will visit Donna's sister and hopefully see her niece and nephews and families. We will spend a week in Oklahoma at our church's Family Church Conference. Then, we will spend a week in Arizona at the FCCI International Camp Meeting. While in California, we will pack up our personal things in our home, and prepare to leave for Kenya by the first part of August.
In August, our African daughter, Judy, will be married. So we need to be back in Nairobi by 10th August for that great event. We will spend a few days in Masai Mara preparing for future ministry there, then travel to our home for our annual Women's Conference. In September, we will hold the second term of our Bible School. Donna will begin working with our medical clinic staff at Ematsayi. In November, we hope to visit Marsabit for the first time; and November will also bring visitors from the US!
Yes, we are going through changes- but change can be good. Change can be positive. Thank you for helping us make these changes! Together we really DO make the difference!
Personal News March 2013 - Welcome New Board Members
Donna and I enjoyed a nice Christmas in the United States. We arrived home on Christmas Eve. We spent a quiet Christmas Day, having lunch together at a Mexican Restaurant, then enjoying a great Christmas Dinner with our Pastor and his family.
As we stated last newsletter our good friend and Vice-President of our Board of Directors, Howard Fickett, went to be with the Lord the latter part of 2012. In January, we needed to elect a new officer to that position. We are so pleased that our pastor, Isaac Lomeli, has agreed to serve on our Board of Directors. We believe that God is positioning Grace and Faith Family Ministries for growth in the next few years - and we are excited about the requests and
Since coming back to the US, our focus has been on curriculum development for the school, and material for the Leadership Training we will be doing this year. We have also begun work on changing our ministry logo and website. We did minister in Azusa at the FCF California Pastor’s lunch, and at Christian Faith Center of the Valley. One weekend, a friend of ours made arrangements for us to stay in a very nice hotel within a block of the beach! We had a great, relaxing time together!
A major change came to our lives in January when Jayson and Dulce Simmons and their three children moved in with us for a season. Jayson and Dulce wanted to be a part of our church in San Diego so badly, and we offered to sow some seed by having them come stay with us while they look for housing in the San Diego area. They moved from Yuma, AZ the first week of January – they have three children, Rebekah, Jozelyn and Zeke. It has been such a joy to have them in our home. This has been good preparation for us as we plan to rent a couple of bedrooms out in July.
I spent a week in Iowa visiting my dad. I was able to see many of my relatives in Iowa, and had a great time We spent two nights at our family cottage in Cedar Falls, where we were blessed with over 6 inches of snow! I could just hear my mother say, "oh my, it is so beautiful! Well, I decided I should take a midnight walk in the snow storm - I stepped out of my cottage, down the steps, and it a patch of ice hidden under the 6 inches of snow! Down I went! LOL My pride was hurt, and my hip was sore - but I'm okay! Everyone was expecting a huge storm in Iowa while I was there, but I kept saying, "it won't come until Tuesday after 6AM" - and sure enough, the snow started right after my flight left from Iowa. It was a great time of connection with family - and some great contacts with partners and friends as well!
As we stated last newsletter our good friend and Vice-President of our Board of Directors, Howard Fickett, went to be with the Lord the latter part of 2012. In January, we needed to elect a new officer to that position. We are so pleased that our pastor, Isaac Lomeli, has agreed to serve on our Board of Directors. We believe that God is positioning Grace and Faith Family Ministries for growth in the next few years - and we are excited about the requests and
Since coming back to the US, our focus has been on curriculum development for the school, and material for the Leadership Training we will be doing this year. We have also begun work on changing our ministry logo and website. We did minister in Azusa at the FCF California Pastor’s lunch, and at Christian Faith Center of the Valley. One weekend, a friend of ours made arrangements for us to stay in a very nice hotel within a block of the beach! We had a great, relaxing time together!
A major change came to our lives in January when Jayson and Dulce Simmons and their three children moved in with us for a season. Jayson and Dulce wanted to be a part of our church in San Diego so badly, and we offered to sow some seed by having them come stay with us while they look for housing in the San Diego area. They moved from Yuma, AZ the first week of January – they have three children, Rebekah, Jozelyn and Zeke. It has been such a joy to have them in our home. This has been good preparation for us as we plan to rent a couple of bedrooms out in July.
I spent a week in Iowa visiting my dad. I was able to see many of my relatives in Iowa, and had a great time We spent two nights at our family cottage in Cedar Falls, where we were blessed with over 6 inches of snow! I could just hear my mother say, "oh my, it is so beautiful! Well, I decided I should take a midnight walk in the snow storm - I stepped out of my cottage, down the steps, and it a patch of ice hidden under the 6 inches of snow! Down I went! LOL My pride was hurt, and my hip was sore - but I'm okay! Everyone was expecting a huge storm in Iowa while I was there, but I kept saying, "it won't come until Tuesday after 6AM" - and sure enough, the snow started right after my flight left from Iowa. It was a great time of connection with family - and some great contacts with partners and friends as well!
HONORING A GREAT MAN OF GOD - We miss you!
We wanted to honor a great man of God in this section – a personal friend, a colleague, and a member of our Board of Directors who went home to be with the Lord in November. Howard Fickett has been such a vital part of Grace & Faith Family Ministries, and such an encouragement to my wife and I for many years. We first met Howard and his wife, Annette in the late 1980’s. We had just moved to California, and had been introduced to them at a church conference in Tulsa. Over the years, our friendship grew, and our ministry relationship developed greatly. In 1990, we moved from Southern California to Tucson, and Howard was so helpful both in our move and getting settled. During my first trip to East Africa in 1991, they watched after Donna and Kierstien for me.
In 1999, when we started our church in San Diego, we asked Howard to serve on our Board of Directors, which he agreed to do. He has been a great source of encouragement and support for our ministry. On our first trip to Africa in 2006 as a couple, we visited Howard and Annette in Uganda. We ministered with him in Kampala, and have ministered with them in Mexico as well. In 2010, when we felt the Holy Spirit leading us to be fulltime in East Africa, Howard fully supported our call.
Howard served Grace and Faith Family Ministries faithfully for many years…we rejoice in his graduation to heaven, but feel his loss here on earth. Thank you, Father, for Howard’s life and influence in our lives!
He really DID make a difference!
In 1999, when we started our church in San Diego, we asked Howard to serve on our Board of Directors, which he agreed to do. He has been a great source of encouragement and support for our ministry. On our first trip to Africa in 2006 as a couple, we visited Howard and Annette in Uganda. We ministered with him in Kampala, and have ministered with them in Mexico as well. In 2010, when we felt the Holy Spirit leading us to be fulltime in East Africa, Howard fully supported our call.
Howard served Grace and Faith Family Ministries faithfully for many years…we rejoice in his graduation to heaven, but feel his loss here on earth. Thank you, Father, for Howard’s life and influence in our lives!
He really DID make a difference!
Personal Update November 2012
We really don’t have a lot of “personal news” to share this month. It has been a real blessing to be back with my wife since October 10th, however. On the home front, we are making some changes that we will share more about in 2013…so for now, we covet your prayers! To prepare for the coming year, I have spent a lot of time going through papers and files, packing away my books and office. We also emptied our attic so we can go through all the papers and boxes we had packed away to see what should be kept and what can be destroyed, sold, or given away.
One thing we are hoping for in 2013 is the ability to ship some of our personal belongings to our home in Kenya. To that end, we have started packing some boxes and identifying furniture we would like to ship abroad. Until we moved into this house, we had moved about every two or three years – but now we have been in one place for over 16 years! I couldn’t believe what we have collected and kept! I told my family from now on we are moving every two years – even if it is just to the curb and back! HA!
We were so blessed in October to have a weekend at a resort here in San Diego given to us. It was so nice to spend two nights alone in a nice hotel! Being apart for most of the year has been trying for us, but we are confident that God is doing a good thing! And our relationship is growing deeper each day.
I am leaving this week for Iowa for 10 days. I will be ministering at the Minburn United Methodist Church on Sunday, November 11, then going on a trip to Branson, MO with my dad, a sister and a brother. This should be a great trip – a time to connect with family and with friends and partners in the Midwest!
One major praise report is that we have raised three quarters of what we project we will need to purchase a vehicle in Kenya! We are confident that by the time we leave for Africa we will have what we need to secure a reliable vehicle for our use there.
And we have plans to start working on our kitchen in Kenya this trip – purchasing a new stove, and hopefully building some cabinets and putting in a concrete counter top in our kitchen. I have to be honest – I am looking forward to cooking conventionally again – not just on an open flame or a small cook top!
Lastly, we wanted to express our gratitude to our home church! God has been so good to us – when I am in the US, I have been privileged to lead a Life Group on prayer in our home, and help train young men and women for pulpit ministry. This has been such a joy to us – and we are grateful for the opportunities our home church has given us to share God’s love here in San Diego as well.
One thing we are hoping for in 2013 is the ability to ship some of our personal belongings to our home in Kenya. To that end, we have started packing some boxes and identifying furniture we would like to ship abroad. Until we moved into this house, we had moved about every two or three years – but now we have been in one place for over 16 years! I couldn’t believe what we have collected and kept! I told my family from now on we are moving every two years – even if it is just to the curb and back! HA!
We were so blessed in October to have a weekend at a resort here in San Diego given to us. It was so nice to spend two nights alone in a nice hotel! Being apart for most of the year has been trying for us, but we are confident that God is doing a good thing! And our relationship is growing deeper each day.
I am leaving this week for Iowa for 10 days. I will be ministering at the Minburn United Methodist Church on Sunday, November 11, then going on a trip to Branson, MO with my dad, a sister and a brother. This should be a great trip – a time to connect with family and with friends and partners in the Midwest!
One major praise report is that we have raised three quarters of what we project we will need to purchase a vehicle in Kenya! We are confident that by the time we leave for Africa we will have what we need to secure a reliable vehicle for our use there.
And we have plans to start working on our kitchen in Kenya this trip – purchasing a new stove, and hopefully building some cabinets and putting in a concrete counter top in our kitchen. I have to be honest – I am looking forward to cooking conventionally again – not just on an open flame or a small cook top!
Lastly, we wanted to express our gratitude to our home church! God has been so good to us – when I am in the US, I have been privileged to lead a Life Group on prayer in our home, and help train young men and women for pulpit ministry. This has been such a joy to us – and we are grateful for the opportunities our home church has given us to share God’s love here in San Diego as well.
Personal News October 2012
After I got to the United States, I left for Colorado for a ten day tour. I visited a church in Trinidad that we are in relationship with, and enjoyed fellowship and teaching the Word. Then, my pastor came to join me for a week-long conference at Andrew Wommack Ministries. We had such a great time in Colorado Springs together – thanks to a partner, we had a great apartment that we were able to stay in fairly close to the conference. Colorado is so beautiful during the fall – and we enjoyed the time there so much.
One of the biggest challenges Donna and I face is our constant separation. With me in Kenya at least six months of the year, and travelling in the US much of the rest of the year, Donna and I have little time together. While we are willing to make these sacrifices as we start our ministry abroad, it does get old! While I was in Colorado, I asked the Lord to provide a way for us to have a special date night, and maybe a special weekend alone. Thank God for His provision! When I got home to San Diego, God opened a door for me to take my wife on a special date to a resort in Carlsbad for dinner. It was such a great time! One of the Chef’s of the resort made sure that we were well taken care of – and we had a great night!
We are very close to having our tickets for Kenya in November – we have well over half of the needed funds for the ticket. We continue to stand in faith for the remaining funds to come quickly – as we need to purchase these tickets no later than the 30th of October to get a decent rate. We are very excited as the Lord has provided the finances for us to purchase a stove and oven, and to have our house wired so we can use a generator when the electricity is out. This is such a blessing to us, and will make life in Kenya much easier. Donna is so excited to join me in Kenya in November. Not only do we enjoy our time together, it gives her opportunity to also share the love of God with the people in Kenya.
I will be spending 10 days in the Midwest in November, ministering in Minburn, Iowa November 11, and taking a trip to Branson, MO with my dad, a brother and a sister from the 14th thought the 18th. At 88, my dad is doing very well. I am looking forward to spending a little time with him then!
Donna and I will be on a plane Thanksgiving Day (and by experience, I can tell you we don’t get any turkey dinners on these flights! LOL). But we plan to be home in California for Christmas with our daughter. As usual, we plan to spend New Year’s Eve in Tucson with our mentor and good friends.
Thank you for keeping us updated with your life as well! We love to hear from you – you can connect with us on facebook, or through e-mail. Donna’s email address is Revdonnap@gffmi.org; and mine is Revpeterp@gffmi.org. We look forward to keeping in connection with YOU!
One of the biggest challenges Donna and I face is our constant separation. With me in Kenya at least six months of the year, and travelling in the US much of the rest of the year, Donna and I have little time together. While we are willing to make these sacrifices as we start our ministry abroad, it does get old! While I was in Colorado, I asked the Lord to provide a way for us to have a special date night, and maybe a special weekend alone. Thank God for His provision! When I got home to San Diego, God opened a door for me to take my wife on a special date to a resort in Carlsbad for dinner. It was such a great time! One of the Chef’s of the resort made sure that we were well taken care of – and we had a great night!
We are very close to having our tickets for Kenya in November – we have well over half of the needed funds for the ticket. We continue to stand in faith for the remaining funds to come quickly – as we need to purchase these tickets no later than the 30th of October to get a decent rate. We are very excited as the Lord has provided the finances for us to purchase a stove and oven, and to have our house wired so we can use a generator when the electricity is out. This is such a blessing to us, and will make life in Kenya much easier. Donna is so excited to join me in Kenya in November. Not only do we enjoy our time together, it gives her opportunity to also share the love of God with the people in Kenya.
I will be spending 10 days in the Midwest in November, ministering in Minburn, Iowa November 11, and taking a trip to Branson, MO with my dad, a brother and a sister from the 14th thought the 18th. At 88, my dad is doing very well. I am looking forward to spending a little time with him then!
Donna and I will be on a plane Thanksgiving Day (and by experience, I can tell you we don’t get any turkey dinners on these flights! LOL). But we plan to be home in California for Christmas with our daughter. As usual, we plan to spend New Year’s Eve in Tucson with our mentor and good friends.
Thank you for keeping us updated with your life as well! We love to hear from you – you can connect with us on facebook, or through e-mail. Donna’s email address is Revdonnap@gffmi.org; and mine is Revpeterp@gffmi.org. We look forward to keeping in connection with YOU!
Personal News September - 2012
It is sometimes a bit difficult to post personal news when our family is separated by so many miles! But, i will try to catch you up on the happenings in our family! Donna and I started a Life Group with our Church, Destiny Church in San Diego a few months ago. We have this group for a very selfish reason - we wanted a prayer community to cover us with prayers while we work on the African Continent. We call it Glocal Prayer (for Global and Local Prayer). We spend a few minutes teaching a message on prayer, then spend the majority of our time in prayer for missions related to our church, and for our local church and it's ministry. We have had such a wonderful experience! We are not yet very large - but those who are coming are dedicated to praying for us in Africa, for our missionaries in Macedonia, and for our outreaches with the local church. In the midst, God is really blessing us! We are also learning to carry each other's cares to God - and watch how God is moving in our lives! If you are in the San Diego area, we meet on the third Tuesday of every month for one hour from 7:30 PM. You are most welcome!
Donna and Kierstien are doing well in the United States while I am here in Kenya. Separation from my spouse is the hardest thing to deal with personally through out the year. We are standing in faith that as this next year comes we will be able to have her with me more and more! Certainly I understand when God says, "it is not good for man to be alone!" Ha! Since I have been gone, we have had two house guests - a friend of Kierstien's from Saudi Arabia, and my niece and her family from Phoenix!
In October, I will be in Colorado for the Andrew Wommack Minister's Conference, and hope to be ministering in a couple of churches in that area. The second Sunday of October, we are sharing at Lost and Found Ministries in Fontana, CA. I am looking forward to sharing with this church! In November, I will be sharing in Minburn, Iowa - so if you are in the Minburn area, come out and join us! I will be at the Minburn United Methodist Church!
Donna and Kierstien are doing well in the United States while I am here in Kenya. Separation from my spouse is the hardest thing to deal with personally through out the year. We are standing in faith that as this next year comes we will be able to have her with me more and more! Certainly I understand when God says, "it is not good for man to be alone!" Ha! Since I have been gone, we have had two house guests - a friend of Kierstien's from Saudi Arabia, and my niece and her family from Phoenix!
In October, I will be in Colorado for the Andrew Wommack Minister's Conference, and hope to be ministering in a couple of churches in that area. The second Sunday of October, we are sharing at Lost and Found Ministries in Fontana, CA. I am looking forward to sharing with this church! In November, I will be sharing in Minburn, Iowa - so if you are in the Minburn area, come out and join us! I will be at the Minburn United Methodist Church!
Personal News August - 2012
Our biggest personal news is that our daughter, Kierstien, graduated on July 27th with her second master’s degree in TESOL. We were so blessed to have my dad, Richard Pfaltzgraff, join us for the celebration! We traveled to Azusa, CA for the graduation ceremony, and on the 28th, we hosted a huge celebration at our home for Kierstien. Over 60 people came out for the party – including church family, old friends, old school friends of Kierstiens and others. We were so blessed to have a live DJ for the party, and a lot of great food and a candy buffet! We are very proud of Kierstien and her accomplishments. And we pray for her future – we know God has a special plan and purpose for her life! Below are some photo’s from her graduation ceremony and the party!
Personal News July-2012
Once in a while, I will update our personal space for those who want to hear personal news about us! This is an important month in our home. On July 12, 1974, I became the luckiest man alive – and married Donna Zelley in Des Moines, Iowa. I remember that night so well – it was so hot and humid all day! The church did not even cool down with the air conditioning! I remember sweating so badly my glasses wouldn’t stay on my face! But it was a great day. My dad, Donna’s dad and a Catholic Priest were the pastors who married us – and the church was full! It’s now been 38 years, and I don’t regret it one day! I won’t show you all of our pictures – some are really embarrassing! However, I have put a couple from our wedding day here for you to see! Don’t laugh too hard!
July is also my birth month. I turned 58 this year – and we had a great day! After church, we had over 40 guests for dinner to celebrate my birthday. I’ve posted some of those pictures here as well…I fixed probably close to 90% of the meal (I didn’t grill the Carne Asada) and it was really good!
Lastly, July marks the anniversary of my adoption. I was my parent’s 6th Wedding anniversary present! Because of my adoption, I have a great appreciation to what the Apostle Paul’s writing in Ephesians 1:5, “For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father.’” I am so thankful to the Lord for placing me in a home where my parents had a revelation of the spirit of adoption! And that revelation has helped me have a greater understanding of the nature of my Father God.
Lastly, we look forward in July this year to the graduation of our daughter, Kierstien, from a Master’s Degree in ESL from Azuza Pacific University. She will walk on July 27, 2012. This is her second master’s degree, and has been a challenge to her! We congratulate her on her accomplishments!
July is also my birth month. I turned 58 this year – and we had a great day! After church, we had over 40 guests for dinner to celebrate my birthday. I’ve posted some of those pictures here as well…I fixed probably close to 90% of the meal (I didn’t grill the Carne Asada) and it was really good!
Lastly, July marks the anniversary of my adoption. I was my parent’s 6th Wedding anniversary present! Because of my adoption, I have a great appreciation to what the Apostle Paul’s writing in Ephesians 1:5, “For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father.’” I am so thankful to the Lord for placing me in a home where my parents had a revelation of the spirit of adoption! And that revelation has helped me have a greater understanding of the nature of my Father God.
Lastly, we look forward in July this year to the graduation of our daughter, Kierstien, from a Master’s Degree in ESL from Azuza Pacific University. She will walk on July 27, 2012. This is her second master’s degree, and has been a challenge to her! We congratulate her on her accomplishments!
Personal News - June 2012
Life with the Pfaltzgraff family can be quite hectic! The month of June was so full! When I arrived in the US from Kenya the end of May, my family and I flew to Iowa to visit family there. My dad’s only brother went home to be with Jesus in January of this year, and the Iowa Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church had a special service to honor those men and women who have died in the past year. Since we were unable to make it to his memorial service, we made arrangements to be in Iowa a bit early this year so we could attend this service.
After the service, we drove to Galena, IL to visit Donna’s sister and her husband there. Galena is such a beautiful place – we had less than 48 hours there, but enjoyed ourselves so much!
After Galena, we drove back to Des Moines to pick up my dad, and then drove to Paynesville, MN (about two hours west of Minneapolis) to celebrate his 88th birthday. We had thirty members of our family join us at Lake Koronis Conference Center! Each of us shared a bit about what we are doing, and we enjoyed four days of recreation and fellowship. It was a great trip for our family.
In addition to our activity with Grace and Faith Family Ministries, God has blessed us with a great home church in San Diego, Destiny Church. Donna and I lead a Life Group, Glocal Prayer (Global and Local Prayer). We teach on prayer for a few minutes, then spend time in prayer for our local church and missions around the world. Honestly, it was a selfish move - we wanted people to pray for us! One of our goals is to start an online training for people in our church who want to develop their knowledge of the Word. We are also working with our church in an online mentorship program for members who want to develop their preaching skills. Over the next six months, we will mentor three to five people.
These are such exciting times. Thank you so much for keeping us in your prayers! We love you so much! Below are a few "Family Moment" pictures! Enjoy!
After the service, we drove to Galena, IL to visit Donna’s sister and her husband there. Galena is such a beautiful place – we had less than 48 hours there, but enjoyed ourselves so much!
After Galena, we drove back to Des Moines to pick up my dad, and then drove to Paynesville, MN (about two hours west of Minneapolis) to celebrate his 88th birthday. We had thirty members of our family join us at Lake Koronis Conference Center! Each of us shared a bit about what we are doing, and we enjoyed four days of recreation and fellowship. It was a great trip for our family.
In addition to our activity with Grace and Faith Family Ministries, God has blessed us with a great home church in San Diego, Destiny Church. Donna and I lead a Life Group, Glocal Prayer (Global and Local Prayer). We teach on prayer for a few minutes, then spend time in prayer for our local church and missions around the world. Honestly, it was a selfish move - we wanted people to pray for us! One of our goals is to start an online training for people in our church who want to develop their knowledge of the Word. We are also working with our church in an online mentorship program for members who want to develop their preaching skills. Over the next six months, we will mentor three to five people.
These are such exciting times. Thank you so much for keeping us in your prayers! We love you so much! Below are a few "Family Moment" pictures! Enjoy!